Developer marks student accommodation milestone

A topping-out ceremony has taken place marking the latest milestone at a new student accommodation scheme being developed in Derby.

Key stakeholders joined members of the development team at Berry Group for the ceremony at the site, which comprises 44 student studios on the corner of Slack Lane and Uttoxeter Old Road.

The topping-out ceremony marks the milestone of reaching the highest point in the construction of the project, which involves the erection of a contemporary three-storey student block.

The scheme represents the group’s first new build student accommodation venture in Derby.

Clearing of the site started in January 2023 and was followed by ground-breaking ceremony in May.

Construction work is progressing as planned, with the building expected to be completed by the end of July, ready occupation in September.

Berry Group, which was founded in 2015 by Sam Berry and Sarah Clowes, has expanded its portfolio significantly over the past few years.

Last year, it acquired a number of properties in Green Lane, which are currently being transformed into a mixed-use development, featuring ground-floor commercial units to the front.

The group is also currently developing nine studio apartments and a commercial unit in Babington Lane, which is due to be completed soon.

Speaking about its latest student accommodation scheme, Sam Berry, director of Berry Group, said: “The topping-out ceremony is an immense step towards the completion of our exciting student residential scheme in Derby.

“The team have worked extremely hard to ensure this scheme will create contemporary student accommodation which enhances the local residential area.”

Director Sarah Clowes said: “This signifies a major milestone in the Berry Group’s ongoing commitment to driving positive change and growth in Derby’s property landscape.

“We look forward to delivering high-quality accommodation for the city’s students.”