Fears students displaced after flats injunction

The prominent building in Newcastle-under-Lyme lay half-completed for a number of years

An investigation has been launched into a suspected breach of building regulations at a block of student flats which was due to open in time for the new term.

The BBC understands that up to 230 students could be displaced as a result of the delayed launch at Deakin's Yard, formerly known as the Sky Building, in Newcastle-under-Lyme, Staffordshire.

The Heath and Safety Executive (HSE) said it had secured an interim injunction to prevent "unlawful occupation" of the building while the matter was being investigated, adding students' welfare was the priority.

The building's owner, Integritas Property Group Ltd, said it was working to address the situation and resolve things as quickly as possible.

Keele University said it was supporting students affected by the issue and had a range of on-campus accommodation available.

Affected students were urged to contact the university directly for support.

A spokesperson for the University of Staffordshire said they were aware of the issue but checks so far indicated none of its students were affected.

Integritas said: "We can confirm that the launch of Deakin's Yard has been temporarily delayed, pending the receipt of a final certificate.

"We are working closely with the Health and Safety Executive and the Building Inspectorate to address the matter and ensure all requirements are met.

"Our priority is to resolve this as quickly as possible and to ensure the building meets the highest standards of safety and compliance before launching."

A spokesperson for the HSE said: "The welfare of those due to occupy the building is our primary priority."

They added the HSE was working with relevant organisations to resolve the matter.

Construction delays

Last year, it was revealed that delays in construction meant the developer was unable to complete the building in time for the start of the 2024/25 academic year.

It had been left half-built after its previous owners went into administration.

The site, formerly home to the Jubilee Baths, was sold by Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council in 2015.

It should have opened as a student housing complex in 2017, but work stalled due to long drawn-out disputes with investors.

Current owner Integritas Property Group Ltd, took the building on in November 2023.

Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council said it was aware of the situation and was liaising with the relevant organisations to support those affected.