Student Accommodation
A 724-bed student accommodation development at Little Donegall Street, Belfast, has officially topped out.
Biscuit Factory, a £50 million project delivered by GRAHAM on behalf of LDS Dev Co, with Lacuna Developments acting as development manager, comprises a mix of studio and cluster flats across ten storeys, complemented by modern social and wellbeing amenities.
Strategic City Centre Location
Strategically located near Ulster University, the purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) enhances the city’s housing options as demand for student living space continues to grow. Student accommodation operator, Fresh, will manage the site which is expected to complete in June 2026.
Historic Connections
Named in a nod to its history, the development occupies the site of the former Marsh & Co biscuit factory, established in 1881, which was renowned for its quality biscuits. The factory was run by John Marsh, while his brother Joseph, the architect of the building, later became proprietor of the Ulster Tin Company. Marsh & Co closed in 1928, and the building was heavily damaged in the 1970s.
The significant investment by Lacuna Developments has breathed new life into the site, transforming it into one of the city’s premier student accommodation complexes. Featuring thoughtfully designed interiors, modern amenities, and comfortable living spaces, the development offers an unparalleled experience for students.
Ciaran Leahy, contracts manager at GRAHAM said: “Biscuit Factory is a fantastic addition to Belfast’s student accommodation, designed to provide modern, comfortable, and purpose-built homes for today’s students.
“Drawing on GRAHAM’s long-standing experience in delivering high-quality student accommodation, we have worked closely with the project team to ensure this complex sets a new standard for student living. It’s exciting to see how it will enhance the city and create a vibrant community where students can truly thrive.”
Anthony Best, managing director of Lacuna Developments, added: “The topping out of Biscuit Factory marks a major milestone in bringing new life to a site with a rich history.
“Transforming the area into a modern, high-quality student accommodation, the development celebrates the site’s past while providing contemporary, welcoming spaces for students to live, study and connect.”
Sam Scott, managing director at Fresh, said: “It is great to see Biscuit Factory taking the next steps towards opening. This is an exciting time as we prepare to launch Biscuit Factory for both students currently studying and those looking to make Belfast their home in September 2026. Working with LDS Devco and GRAHAM, we’re proud to be bringing this property to life, not just by creating a brand that reflects the site’s heritage but by also delivering a modern and vibrant offering that will shape the student experience enabling students from all over the globe to come together under one roof.”
Brian McCracken, funding partner, said: “I am very excited and proud to have got this large best-in-class project out of the ground which will be a great asset for the future student experience in Belfast.
“I take this opportunity to thank the whole team involved on this project with the can-do attitude and experience with GRAHAM and Lacuna Developments, along with the appointment of Fresh and their experience as our operator. I look forward to the project completion in June next year.”