University’s Claycroft accommodation to undergo 10-month refurbishment

Work has commenced to renovate the University of Warwick’s Claycroft Residences, in a project expected to last the entirety of the 2025/26 academic year.

Morgan Sindall Construction has been handed the contract for the major 17,000m² overhaul, which will see the accommodation’s three blocks, built between 1994 and 1997, refurbished and modernised for soon-to-be residents.

The accommodation’s 679 bedrooms will all be modernised with a painted feature wall, while bathrooms in Claycroft’s eight-person flats will undergo extensive redecoration, including new flooring and sanitary provisions.

The project […] is the result of a 14-month design process, which will see Claycroft’s existing roof coverings replaced entirely

Communal areas will be fitted with new vinyl tile flooring and metal suspended ceilings to enhance the aesthetics of Claycroft’s shared kitchens. Additionally, Claycroft 1’s laundry room will have an accessible dryer installed, and will be extended into the adjacent staff office to offer more space.

The project, which was procured via SCAPE Venture – a construction framework specifically designed for privately funded projects – is the result of a 14-month design process, which will see Claycroft’s existing roof coverings replaced entirely, following periodic maintenance work in recent years.

Concept design for Claycroft’s refurbished flats | Image: PLMR Advent

Maintaining safety standards is also central to plans to fully rewire the three accommodation blocks and renew all fire safety systems.

To minimise disruption for Claycroft’s incoming residents in the year ahead, Morgan Sindall’s renovation timeline has been carefully aligned with the academic calendar, and will be completed in three distinct phases, each focusing on one block at a time.

Starting this July, the process will continue through to September 2026, during which time students will be able to relocate and shift their belongings between the blocks available for use as the construction rota progresses.

This investment demonstrates the University of Warwick’s continued commitment to enhancing the student experience through high-quality accommodation

Sioned Cash, Interim Director of Accommodation, University of Warwick

Work on the 266-bedroom Claycroft 1, the first block due to be brought into the 2020s, is scheduled for completion in November, in what has been marketed as the next success in the University’s 60^th anniversary year.

Richard Fielding, Area Director for Morgan Sindall Construction in the Midlands, said: “It’s fantastic to be on site collaborating with the University of Warwick to deliver this refurbishment of Claycroft Residences. Students need space to study, relax, and catch up with friends, and we’re proud that our plans for this development will create a warm, welcoming environment for students to call home during their studies.”

Sioned Cash, Interim Director of Accommodation for the University of Warwick, added: “This investment demonstrates the University of Warwick’s continued commitment to enhancing the student experience through high-quality accommodation.

“We’re delighted to be working in partnership with Morgan Sindall to deliver modern, comfortable living spaces that meet the evolving needs of our students.”