Our work at Westgate One has now reached completion, marking the successful delivery of the final phase of this multi-block student accommodation development. The Freeman building represented the most complex and congested stage of construction - and we’re proud to have brought it to a successful conclusion.

Having maintained programme discipline since the project began in 2020, the Freeman building was completed on schedule and was ready to welcome students for the 2025/2026 academic year.

Positioned close to the edge of Pound Lane, this phase required careful planning and coordination to manage access and maintain safety for both site activities and the local community. Temporary road closures and controlled access routes were implemented to facilitate deliveries and operations, following prior consultations with nearby residents and businesses to minimise disruption throughout construction.

This stage demanded significant logistical planning - including relocating work areas, modifying supply chains, and adapting to extremely limited space. A tower crane was introduced in place of forklifts to overcome spatial restrictions, enabling precise ‘just-in-time’ deliveries and efficient distribution of materials across site. The site entrance for workers was successfully relocated to the High Street, ensuring minimal impact on public footpaths in this busy area of Canterbury.

Architecturally, the Freeman building has been designed to complement its historic surroundings. Along Pound Lane and its return into Sudbury Mews, the design embraces a traditional street-scene aesthetic, featuring timber sash windows, weatherboarding, tile hanging, and slate roofing to harmonise with the area’s character near the Westgate Towers. Mechanical and electrical services have been discreetly integrated to preserve the building’s visual integrity, while extensive flat roof areas now accommodate PV panels, supporting the project’s sustainability goals.

Working closely with Considine Ltd on the civil and structural engineering, we successfully navigated the logistical challenges of constructing within such a confined footprint.

External landscaping now seamlessly links the Freeman building to the wider Westgate One development, providing additional outdoor spaces and courtyard areas for students to enjoy.

Thanks to the continued collaboration with local residents, businesses, and our trusted partners - Paul Roberts Canterbury, OSG Architecture and b&m - we have delivered this project on time and to a high standard. The completion of the Freeman building marks not just the end of construction at Westgate One, but a proud milestone in the creation of a vibrant and sustainable student community in the heart of Canterbury.