In November 2022, funding was approved to assist the Technological Universities (TUs) in developing a student accommodation programme based on a regional needs and feasibility assessment. The Higher Education Authority appointed consultants in June 2023, to oversee and assess the levels of supply and demand for student accommodation across our public higher education institutions (HEIs).
Phase one, a supply and demand analysis, has involved extensive data-gathering across all TUs, Universities and Colleges, comprising a data collection framework, one-to-one meetings with HEI representatives, and a centralised student survey on student accommodation. The comprehensive student accommodation supply and demand framework is currently undergoing analysis and data validation by the Higher Education Authority.
In parallel with the data collection, the Higher Education Authority is overseeing the development of a standardised preliminary business case process and templates. The intention is to develop a programmatic approach to facilitate future TU student accommodation proposals. This work will be progressed in tandem to the standardised design study for student accommodation to ensure a value for money response to student accommodation. This will be informed by the demand analysis data collection process to provide a framework of delivery models and funding options.
A number of delivery modes and mechanisms are being examined as part of this process to inform programme responses. This will include an assessment of PPP type provision. I am not in a position to pre-empt the outcome of this examination process. My Department and I will work within the parameters of the public spending code to deliver on state supported student accommodation provision.
