Planning Application Lodged To Convert Portstewart Property Into Student Accommodation

A planning application has been submitted to convert a former bed and breakfast property at 15 Church Street, Portstewart, into university halls of residence.

The proposal, submitted by Montagu Living, seeks permission to convert the existing building into purpose-built student-managed accommodation (PBSA) for students attending the nearby Ulster University Coleraine campus.

According to the planning, design, and access statement, the building was originally constructed as a nursing home in phases between the late 1980s and mid-1990s. It provided care for up to 87 patients across 54 bedrooms before closing and being deregistered in November 2012.

After being placed on the open market, the property was purchased in June 2014 and has since been used for several residential-type purposes, most recently operating as tourist and hostel accommodation.

The new proposal would see the building reconfigured internally to provide 45 ensuite student bedrooms, arranged in clusters of five to seven rooms with shared kitchen and living spaces. The design statement notes that no changes are proposed to the external appearance of the building.

Plans also include the provision of 15 car parking spaces and two accessible spaces, along with a new cycle store. The existing bin storage area would continue to be used.

Planning consultants say the development would help address a growing shortage of student accommodation linked to the Coleraine campus. A study referenced in the submission indicates that the existing supply is limited, with around 755 student beds currently available, while demand is expected to continue rising.  

If approved, the building would be leased to the university and professionally managed as student halls of residence. The application also includes management, noise and waste plans to ensure the development operates without adverse impact on neighbouring residents.

The site sits close to Portstewart town centre and public transport links, with a bus stop located approximately 170 metres from the property providing connections to Coleraine, Portrush and beyond.