The £21 million investment forms part of Unite’s commitment to providing a ‘Home for Success’ for its 41,000 students.
The new deal aims to improve the physical space within its properties so that students feel more at home, to increase the energy efficiency of its buildings and to reduce the running cost of its portfolio. Unite expects to see payback within five years and the resulting cost savings and service efficiencies will allow Unite Students to make service improvements, such as free cleaning and longer reception hours, at no additional cost.
LED lighting will be installed in corridors, kitchens, lounges, common rooms and reception spaces, as well as outdoor areas. The upgrade will provide high-quality lighting for staff and students to create a better working and living environment. The installation of dimmer switches and a Philips LivingColors colour change lamp in every bedroom will also allow students to personalise their lighting to suit study, relaxation or socialising.
Richard Smith, Managing Director for Unite Students, said:“Success for students means many different things from getting the best degree they can, securing a job after graduating, making lasting friendships and relationships, to personal growth and developing into who they want to be.
The new lighting will create a more inviting space for students which they can personalise for socialising or study. At the same time it will reduce Unite’s carbon footprint and the longer lifecycle of LED lights will significantly reduce maintenance workloads for our city teams.”