Major Student Accommodation Project in Birmingham Receives Planning Approval
Birmingham is set to welcome a significant new student living development as Mercia Real Estate (MRE) has confirmed planning permission for the second phase of its Haüs project at 12 Calthorpe Road in Edgbaston. This approval allows for an additional 129 units, increasing the total investment to £45 million and providing nearly 400 beds upon completion.
Expansion of the Haüs Development
The initial phase, announced earlier, involved a £32 million investment to convert part of a 95,000 sq ft former HSBC office complex into 266 student beds. With this new phase, the total number of beds will rise to 395, making it a substantial addition to Birmingham's student housing market. The first phase is scheduled for practical completion in June, with the site ready to welcome students for the 2026/2027 academic year.
Luxury Amenities and Design
Designed around the concept of a members club, Haüs will offer a range of high-end amenities to enhance student life. Residents will have access to:
- A fully equipped gym for fitness enthusiasts
- A cinema room for entertainment and relaxation
- A juice bar for healthy refreshments
- A karaoke room and games room for social activities
- A content creation studio for academic and creative projects
- Private study zones and a private dining room for hosting friends
Accommodation options include classic and premium shared flats, each with private bathrooms and communal kitchen and living areas, as well as luxury self-contained studios.
Statements from Key Stakeholders
Samuel Clark, CEO of Mercia Real Estate, emphasized the project's alignment with sustainable development: "Redeveloping existing buildings and previously developed land sits exactly alongside our proven value-add strategy. Applying this ethos across both industrial and residential sectors, enabled by our capital partners, will continue in 2026." He added that the show apartment has brought their vision to life, and they are excited to welcome students to experience the building's unique amenities.
MRE has appointed global PBSA manager Yugo to operate the building. Nick Sweeney, city manager at Yugo, commented: "Haüs is a great example of thoughtful reuse done properly: strong amenity, clear student focus, and an asset that’s built to perform operationally as well as experientially. We’re excited to bring Yugo’s student-first approach to Birmingham."
Simon Dekker, senior relationship director at Paragon Bank, highlighted the collaborative effort: "This development shows how strong partnerships between developer, lender and landowner can repurpose existing buildings to create placemaking communities where they’re needed most. The scheme will support Birmingham’s education sector and wider regeneration ambitions." He noted Paragon Bank's pride in being a major investor in Edgbaston and their commitment to funding more community-focused developments.
Impact on Birmingham
This £45 million project is expected to contribute positively to Birmingham's regeneration efforts and support its growing education sector. By repurposing an existing building, it aligns with sustainable urban development goals while providing modern, amenity-rich housing for students. The development underscores Birmingham's appeal as a key destination for higher education and investment in the region.
