Preparations to build are getting underway on the site of the Owens Park Tower, as part of The University of Manchester’s wider regeneration of the Fallowfield Campus.
The Tower was taken out of service in 2021 with demolition beginning in 2024. It was completed in Spring 2025, with the demolition carried out by Manchester-based company P.P. O’Connor.
Modern and high-quality student accommodation will be built on the site, bringing the wider Fallowfield Campus offering up to 5,400 student beds. The project will deliver 3,300 updated bedspaces as well as replacing some of the existing accommodation.
Planning permission for the new accommodation was secured following public consultation with local groups, residents, staff and students.
Owens Park Tower will be remembered fondly as a focal point of the Fallowfield Campus by former residents and alumni of The University of Manchester.
Built in the 1960s, Owens Park housed thousands of students every year, and previous famous residents include actor Benedict Cumberbatch, comedian Rik Mayall, and Radiohead guitarist Ed O’Brien.
Barra Mac Ruairí, Chief Property Officer at The University of Manchester said: “Owens Park Tower will always be remembered by generations of staff and students. For many of our alumni, it was their first home in this city.
“But a great new chapter awaits our Fallowfield Campus, and I am excited to see our bold vision for modern student accommodation, which reflects our commitment to providing an exceptional living environment, come to life.”
Along with Owens Park, Oak House and Woolton Hall will eventually also be redeveloped. The changes come at a time of increasing demand for student accommodation in Manchester, with the University committed to providing inclusive and safe accommodation in sociable surroundings.
