MCR Property Group Acquires Former University of Hull Sites, The Lawns & Ferens Hall

Spanning almost 39 acres, the two sites previously provided 970 student beds across seven accommodation blocks and a central hub. MCR plans to bring the buildings back into use with a multi-million-pound refurbishment programme that will deliver modern, high-quality student accommodation ready for the next academic year.

Alongside the student element, MCR is working closely with East Riding of Yorkshire Council and local planners to bring forward a significant new residential scheme. Proposals are being shaped to include more than 90 new homes at Ferens Hall, with further opportunities under review across The Lawns. This balanced approach will ensure the regeneration of the site provides long-term value for both the university community and Cottingham as a whole.

Nick Lake, Fund Director at MCR Property Group, said:

“The Lawns and Ferens Hall are iconic sites with a proud history. Our vision is to restore them to their former role as centres for student living, while also introducing a high-quality residential scheme that will meet local housing needs. By working in partnership with the council, we aim to create a sustainable development that brings lasting benefit to the community and supports Hull’s growth as a university city. This acquisition builds on the momentum of our recent PBSA investments and demonstrates our commitment to scaling a platform with real impact nationwide.”

The acquisition adds to MCR’s expanding student living portfolio of more than 3,500 units and a further pipeline of 1,700 units with planning approved, following major deals including the 1,000-bed Central Portfolio and the 629-bed Clanny House in Sunderland. Together with schemes in Liverpool, Sheffield  Coventry, Birmingham and other regional centres, MCR has established itself as one of the UK’s most dynamic and fast-growing platforms in the PBSA sector.

MCR was supported by selling agent, Savills,with legal representation from James Boschat, and Dan Hargreaves from Deloitte.