International legal practice Osborne Clarke has advised Equitix, the investor, developer and long-term fund manager, and EQUANS (the services-led activities of Engie UK & Ireland) on contracts worth over £100 million for a state-of-the-art, low carbon student accommodation and regeneration scheme to design, build, fund, manage and operate the project for University of Birmingham.
EQUANS are responsible for the delivery of 496 new student homes comprising new build as well as the refurbishment of existing accommodation blocks and the construction of a multi-storey car park. The scheme will form an integral part of the University's long term sustainable investment strategy. Equitix will also provide management services to the Project, overseeing the construction and operation of the new residences.
The Osborne Clarke team was led by Partner Chris Wade, supported by Senior Associate David Smith ( both Projects). The other specialists involved in the transactions included Partner Philip Davies (Construction), Partner Andy Normington (Project Finance), Partner Tracey Wright (Tax), Senior Associate Jasdeep Puri (Project Finance), Associate Director Bethan Moore (Project Finance), Associate Director Leanne Hooper (Real Estate), Associate Director Elizabeth Shanahan (Tax), Associate Director Amy Dimond (Projects), Senior Associate Thomasina Pantelides (Construction), Associate Rebecca Ewing (Corporate), Trainee Solicitors Sophia Lupton Rich and David J Morgan and Paralegal Adam Budd.
The team has worked with Equitix for over eight years and has previously advised on its joint venture accommodation development project with EQUANS and Leicester University, as well as York University, Durham University and its joint venture acquisition of The Stellar Portfolio and more recently, the third phase of University of Essex Student Accommodation Partnership.
Chris said: "Osborne Clarke was thrilled to once again act for Equitix and EQUANS; this time helping the University of Birmingham achieve its strategic growth plans and support its long term sustainable investment strategy."
With over 250 years of property expertise, Osborne Clarke’s Real Estate and Infrastructure sector team is a recognised industry leader in student accommodation. The team works with pan-European clients and currently acts for five of the top student accommodation providers in the UK.
