Watkin Jones has secured Gateway 2 approval for its 484-bed purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) development on Malago Road in Bristol's Temple Quarter. The scheme, delivered through a joint venture between Watkin Jones and real estate finance manager Maslow Capital, is designed to meet growing demand for high-quality student housing in the city.

Gateway 2 confirms that the project has obtained all necessary approvals, financing and contractual arrangements, enabling it to move into the next phase. Construction began on site in early 2026, underscoring Watkin Jones' delivery capability and track record in progressing sustainable, well-located urban projects.

First announced in December 2025, the development will transform a brownfield site into a modern student community situated approximately 100 metres from Bedminster train station and an 11‑minute walk from the University of Bristol's new Temple Quarter campus. The scheme provides studio accommodation alongside 30 non‑ensuite rooms across three blocks, with part of the asset to operate under a nomination agreement with the University of Bristol. Sustainability targets include BREEAM Excellent, EPC B and WiredScore Platinum, and the project remains on schedule to open for the start of the 2028 academic year.

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The milestone supports Watkin Jones' strategy to deliver sustainable assets that broaden income streams and create long‑term value, while highlighting the Group's agile and efficient approach to project execution.

Gwyn Pritchard, Managing Director at Watkin Jones, commented: "The achievement of attaining Gateway 2 for our Malago Road scheme reflects the strength of our partnerships, the quality of our design, and the hard work of our teams. With construction already underway, we are pleased to be progressing a development that will regenerate a brownfield site and deliver high‑quality, sustainable student homes in a prime location. This project underlines our commitment to creating thoughtful, future‑ready student accommodation, and we look forward to progressing the project towards completion in time for the start of the 2028 academic year."

Sky Mapson, Senior Director of Origination at Maslow Capital, commented: "Gateway 2 approval is an important milestone for Malago Road and reinforces our conviction in the strength of the scheme. Bristol continues to demonstrate clear demand for well-located, purpose-built student accommodation, and this development is particularly well positioned given its connectivity and proximity to the University of Bristol's growing Temple Quarter campus. We are pleased to be partnering with Watkin Jones to support the delivery of an asset that is well aligned with the city's long-term needs."