Scottish Cities Alliance

Scotland’s cities are well known as centres of excellence for education and research – our universities and colleges attract students from across the world.

And these students are bringing lucrative and attractive investment opportunities to businesses, as thousands of young people are looking for high-quality accommodation where they can live and enjoy life in our cities.

Scotland’s student population is growing, and as a result, the purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) sector is experiencing a huge surge in demand.

In both Glasgow and Edinburgh, there has been a vast increase in the number of people attending higher education.

Across Glasgow’s five main institutions, that number has risen from 67,780 to 92,430 between 2014/15 and 2021/22 – that’s an increase of 36 per cent. And in Edinburgh, student numbers across the four main universities have soared from 57,980 to 74,710 – a rise of 29 per cent.

One-sixth of Dundee’s population consists of students, contributing to a vibrant and bustling student community.

And some of the student accommodation that’s being planned across Scotland is impressive

In Dundee, a site in the Marketgait is set to be transformed into a seven-storey set of flats that will accommodate nearly 200 students. And it will come complete with a gym and cinema.

Meanwhile, in Glasgow, hundreds of students will enjoy riverside living at the new City Wharf development. Situated next to the Kingston Bridge, the development will feature 490 student rooms, as well as 500 energy-efficient homes and units for commercial use.

Glasgow City Council recently gave the go-ahead for the development by the housing firm Dandara Living. And the firm’s planning director Rachel Allwood said:

We’re delighted City Wharf has been given the green light. It will play a key role in the significant transformation this part of the city is undergoing and help to bring more people into the area, extending the vibrancy of the Clyde waterfront.

And the development will also boast a large gym and residents’ lounge

Meanwhile in Edinburgh, two new exciting sets of student accommodation are planned by building firm S Harrison Developments. The company will construct a total of 142 studio flats at East Newington Place, off Newington Road and at the Canongate, just behind the Royal Mile. And the flats will make good use of land that’s currently occupied by disused and derelict buildings.

David Clancy, S Harrison Developments, said:

Both schemes are very well-designed and in highly sought-after locations really close to the university, which will make them extremely popular with students.

Construction work at East Newington Place will start in the coming months, with the scheme complete and ready for the 2025 student intake. We also expect demolition work to begin imminently at Canongate, with the development ready to open for the start of the 2026 academic year.

Scotland’s cities are witnessing a remarkable surge in student populations, driving a pressing need for high-quality accommodation. With each new endeavour, we’re not just addressing housing needs but also shaping vibrant, inclusive communities that enhance the overall student experience.