Portergate scheme on Friargate: Demolition experts on site as new student flats block work continues

View down Great Shaw Street showing artists impression of Friargate Court

A major new development of student flats has moved into its next stage.

Portergate has appointed demolition experts Vale Park Demolition Services to begin work.

Land off Friargate and Great Shaw Street is to become a 253-room student accommodation block with new shops facing onto one of the main city shopping streets.

Anthony Jackson, chairman of Portergate Properties, said: “We can’t wait to see the arrival of the heavy demolition equipment on site.

“This is the biggest building project in Preston and will play a key role in our continued expansion plans in the North West.

“Once completed it will provide boutique hotel-style accommodation, not only for students but also for young key workers in the city, where we believe there is a real demand for this type of living space.

“Our aim throughout the project is to play a major role in transforming the fortunes of the Friargate area and our hope is that our development and commitment will encourage others to invest in the area as a key part of the city’s regeneration.”

Demolition plans include the former Blitz nightclub which is part of the redevelopment site.

Blitz nightclub on Great Shaw Street

Tom Perks, contracts manager at Vale Park, which has its headquarters in Crumpsall, said: “We are delighted to have been appointed on such a high-profile construction scheme in Preston and to be working with the Eric Wright team to deliver the project successfully for Portergate.

“At the moment we are operating inside the existing buildings on the site carrying out removal work and our specialist equipment will be on site shortly and then we will begin the overall site clearance.