Energy and regeneration specialist Engie has won more than £200 million of contracts to build and run a vast student village on the edge of Leicester.
The business, part of a 60.6 billion euro, French-owned global operation, has been picked to build the 1,164 flat Freemen’s Common Student Village for the University of Leicester.
The university gained planning for the Welford Road site last spring.
It will include seven residential blocks, a 550-space multi-storey car park and a new 100,000 sq ft teaching block.
The scheme will also incorporate the refurbishment and extension of the Grade II-listed Freemen’s Cottages at its centre.
Landscaping will include tree-lined walkways, wildflower areas and gardens, and two public spaces to provide a focal point.
The project is being delivered in a partnership between the University of Leicester and a consortium led by Equitix.
Demolition got underway a few months ago with building work set to start in September.
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The multi-storey car park should be ready next summer, with the teaching centre and first student flats opening in 2021.
The whole scheme should be finished by 2022.
As well as winning the right to build the scheme, Engie has taken on a 50 year facilities management contract which will see it provide internet and IT services, estates management and cleaning for the outdoor areas.
The scheme will include energy-saving technology including solar panels, centralised gas fired combined heat and power, and LED lighting.
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Martin Smithurst, a senior member of Engie’s northern region team, said it was a big deal for the business.
He said: “These contracts not only allow us to demonstrate our expertise across energy, services and regeneration, but provides us with the opportunity to apply our long-term investment model, by taking an equity stake in the scheme.
“This assures our partners and students of our long-term commitment to Leicester and its university.
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“We have delivered several similar higher education projects across the country and we’re delighted to be working with the University of Leicester, as well as Equitix, on such a remarkable scheme that will create a lasting legacy in Leicester.”
Martyn Riddleston, director of finance at the University of Leicester, said it was a key project for the university, allowing them to replace decades-old student accommodation.
He said: “The new student residences will provide a huge improvement in the quality and choice of accommodation for our students, including unrivalled new social facilities.
“The new teaching and learning centre will deliver a next-generation learning environment, enabling our students and staff to benefit from the latest technological advancements.”
“We are delighted to be working with ENGIE and Equitix to deliver the project.”
Engie is currently involved in the £50 refurbishment of the Ffestiniog hydro-electric power station in North Wales and is building 140 new council properties across two estates in Tamworth.
It is also working with Fiat Chrysler to support its next generation of electric vehicles.