December 1 2023

Amended plans for a major student accommodation project in St Andrews are to go to committee later this month with a recommendation for approval.

Albany Park is a £100m joint venture between the University of St Andrews and Campus Living Villages which was originally granted consent in 2021 but which is now deemed to be 'undeliverable'.

This has seen architects Hackfield Cawkwell Davidson go back to the drawing board to merge residential blocks for greater floorplan efficiencies and an increase in the number of rooms from 672 to 703.

The redesign has also seen a central hub building introduced that is distinguished by the use of red zinc cladding, contrasted with the use of stone and render elsewhere. Outlining the hub approach the architects wrote: "Block B which has been enhanced to signify its more prominent role as the main reception and central hub for the overall scheme, was proposed in conjunction with Fife Council to provide a landmark point within the centre of the site, to orientate visitors/users.

"The height of this block exceeds the height suggested within the East Sands Urban Design Framework, however the location of the block within the centre of the site results in no overshadowing of any properties outside of the site..."

Subject to he committee's consent the development could break ground early next year.  

1 Comment

#1 Posted by Mansartarchi on 1 Dec 2023 at 12:30 PM

The form and massing seem rather harsh, almost to the point of unwelcoming, and the façade materials are completely arbitrary. Could be confused for a new coastal prison wing, soz.

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