Property developer Downing has been given planning committee approval for a 14-storey student accommodation building in Newcastle.

The new scheme, Heron's Yard, is located on Heber Street and will comprise of a combination of 294 studios and 117 shared cluster flats. The project was designed by architects SimpsonHaugh.

Heron's Yard is the final phase of Downing Plaza, developed over the last decade, comprising Newcastle University Business School, over 1,800 student bedrooms, a 183-room hotel and retail space.


The new scheme will aim for a BREEAM Excellent standard and features a landscaped courtyard as well as internal amenity facilities. It will help cater for Newcastle University's nearly 30,000 students.

Commenting on the plans, George Tyson, projects director at Downing, said: "We are delighted to have secured committee approval for Heron’s Yard, the final piece of our striking Downing Plaza development.

"We pride ourselves on helping to transform places by creating high quality spaces that enhance the local community and bring together the neighbourhood. This development reflects our long-standing commitment to providing the highest quality student accommodation that meets our ambitious ESG targets and the evolving needs of the city and its residents."