PLANS to create new on-campus accommodation for more than 3,000 students at the University of Hertfordshire have taken a leap forward.

After unveiling its 10-year estates strategy 2020 Estates Vision last year, the Hatfield-based uni has now appointed development consortium Uliving as a partner in the scheme.

The company has been tasked with redeveloping 502 existing on-site residencies, building a further 2,511 new units at the uni’s College Lane campus, and managing the completed portfolio.

The scheme includes new sports pitches, campus gym, informal learning and social spaces and a new, dedicated bus route.

It is also hoped the project will become a market leader in sustainibility, with the finished buildings carbon neutral and achieving Oustanding status with BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method).

Andrew May, the university’s director of estates, hospitality and contract services, said the development should be welcomed by Hatfield residents.

“The University sees itself as very much part of the community in Hatfield,” he said.

“We have always looked to increase our interaction with the community whilst reducing the effects of our activities on our neighbours.

“This student accommodation scheme project is a significant strategic development for the University.

“It is not only about investing in the learning and living environments of our staff and students, it is also about housing more of our students on campus.

“This will go some way to reducing the number of students living in houses in the local community and will help towards addressing the noise, litter and car parking issues which were noted as the issues for local residents.”

Uliving is a consortium made up of property developer Bouygues Development and accommodation operator Derwent Living.

Current projects include a similar but smaller revamp at the University of Essex in Colchester.

Stephane Slama-Royer, Managing Director of Uliving and Managing Director of Bouygues Development said:

“This is a remarkable achievement for Uliving and we are really proud to be a part of such a transformational scheme.”

Subject to planning permission, work will commence in May 2013, and will be carried out in three phases, finishing in September 2016.