Innovators of a small, but beautifully presented student development in the World Heritage city of Canterbury are pleased that their Queningate accommodation has been well received.
They have busted many of the hackneyed misconceptions that surround student property including: student accommodation is detrimental to an area; builders cram in as many student units as possible; builders pay no heed to local community opinions; the over-riding objective is to achieve maximum return on income at the cost of aesthetics.
Queningate Mews and Queningate Court in Havelock Street were designed and built by Paul Roberts Canterbury and Abbott Construction respectively – a well-established partnership – whose focus was on consideration of the history of the area, communicating and consulting with the Havelock Street Society, local community and local authority, and taking on board all concerns before finalising their plans.
Through a policy of positive communications, they overcame hurdles along the way and worked with all concerned to arrive at what could be an award winning blueprint for the future.
During the build, local residents were high on the priority list and everything possible was done to mitigate disruption. Direct communication links were established with neighbours and when problems arose they were soon dealt with.
One local resident said “I was apprehensive about the plan to build a student residence close to my house and in our street. I am pleased to say that we were consulted throughout the process of construction, which involved only minimal disruption. The resulting building is a pleasing addition to the street, and the occupants have given us no problems.”
Originally a brownfield site, the new builds were designed to be sympathetic to the area in and around Havelock Street and blend in with their surroundings. Consequently, great attention has been paid to finishes both inside and out, to create a sense of pride and responsibility from tenants.
The properties sit quietly and unobtrusively – a result of the build in honey coloured Flemish bond. Inside their contemporary finishes emphasise the clean lines, laminate flooring and strong colour contrast in shower rooms.
Each of the 42 one double bedroom flats are wi-fi enabled with full fibre broadband, ample USB sockets and each is fully furnished, using modern stylish touches. There is a variety of layout options, but all flats have an open plan reception room with well defined sitting, dining and kitchen areas, and all are well equipped.
Every flat has a double bed and wardrobe; a desk and chair to work from; all kitchens are fully fitted with fridge freezer, 4 ring hob, electric oven, microwave, washer dryer and dishwasher; and generous shower rooms are the norm.
The properties are a one-minute walk to Christ Church University and five-minutes from the bus station and main shopping area, restaurants, hostelries and museums in the City Centre.
Caxtons Student Lettings department is delighted to have been appointed sole agents for the properties, which are already letting well and say that single tenants or couples are welcome. Video tours can be viewed at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lddCaOn1EB0