Irish development and investment company Whitebox has confirmed expected works to commence in Q2 on the largest student accommodation programme ever undertaken outside the Dublin.
The site will be a 1,400-bedspace development in Groody, Limerick.
This large-scale residential project will comprise five blocks ranging from five to eight storeys.
The purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) scheme will be developed on land fronting Groody Road and Dublin Road, Castletroy.
The development is expected to bring major relief to student accommodation deficits in Limerick.
It will be delivered in two phases, with the first, comprising of 724 beds, to be completed by mid-2028.
The second phase will be completed 12 months later.
The €300 million investment has also been welcomed by Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science James Lawless.
Mr. Lawless has said the project illustrates the important role that the private sector can play in delivering modern, high-quality student accommodation across Ireland.
The announcement follows the publication by Minister Lawless on Tuesday, last of the second National Student Accommodation Strategy, which sets out a focused plan to support the delivery of 42,000 student beds by 235.
The Strategy outlines practical measures to address affordability, supply and viability, while ensuring future demand is met without added pressure on the private rental market.
Welcoming the investment, Minister Lawless said: “The approval of the Whitebox Student Campus is a clear example of how private sector investment can play a pivotal role in addressing Ireland’s student housing challenges.
“Purpose-built student accommodation projects like this are essential to expanding housing options and supporting our higher education institutions.
“We commend Groody Developments Ltd for their commitment to Limerick and look forward to seeing more partnerships that deliver for students and communities alike.
“With student numbers continuing to grow, this private sector–funded project represents a vital step forward in ensuring our learners have access to safe, modern, and well-connected accommodation.”
Managing Director of Whitebox, Martin White said: “This is a hugely important investment for Limerick, and we are proud to be delivering a project that will make a real, lasting difference for students, families, and the entire region.
“The scale of this development reflects our confidence in Limerick’s future as a thriving academic and economic hub, and our belief that students deserve access to quality, affordable, modern accommodation.”
In addition to the accommodation, the development will include additional amenities such as a library, canteens, laundry facilities, a student union office.
With bicycle storage, landscaped courtyards, car and bicycle parking, boundary treatments, roof plants, public lighting and other ancillary works.