Setting the standard for purpose-built student accommodation in Leeds

In the heart of Leeds, Carlton Hill is redefining purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) with its focus on sustainability, student well-being, and community-centric design.

Developed by Pickard Properties, Carlton Hill has become a multi-award-winning development, recently securing the prestigious Best Commercial Development accolade at the Yorkshire Post Business Excellence Awards. This win adds to its previous success at the Yorkshire Placemaking Awards, highlighting its status as a benchmark for PBSA in the city and beyond.

Success at the Yorkshire Post Business Excellence Awards | Pickard Properties

Redefining student living

Carlton Hill’s 604-bed development, which welcomed its first residents in September 2023, was designed to meet the evolving needs of students while contributing positively to the urban fabric of Leeds. Its innovative design prioritises comfort, sustainability, and connectivity, with features like spacious living areas, a fully equipped gym, and beautifully landscaped sky gardens and roof terraces.

The development’s sustainability credentials are equally impressive. Boasting an EPC A rating, Carlton Hill incorporates low-carbon technologies, including solar panels and air source heat pumps, meeting nearly half of its energy needs with renewable sources. Its alignment with Leeds City Council’s 20-minute neighbourhood vision ensures sustainable transport options, with pedestrian pathways linking the site to nearby universities and the city centre.

Carlton Hill represents our commitment to delivering exceptional student living while supporting the city’s sustainability goals. Winning multiple awards for this development underlines the impact it has made—not just as a student residence but as a model for future PBSA developments.

Miles Pickard, director of Pickard Properties

Pickard Properties: Leaders in Leeds’ housing rental market

As one of Leeds’ largest private student landlords, Pickard Properties has a legacy of delivering high-quality accommodation. Carlton Hill exemplifies the company’s dual expertise as a developer and manager, blending innovative design with operational excellence to create vibrant student communities.

Pickard Properties manages an extensive portfolio of student accommodation, alongside developing Build to Rent (BTR) schemes such as Spinning Acres in Far Headingley. Spinning Acres, which is also multi-award winning, has transformed a historic site into a thriving residential community, reflecting the company’s commitment to both the student and professional housing markets.

Recognising excellence in Leeds and beyond

Carlton Hill’s success comes at a time when the demand for high-quality student accommodation is on the rise. With increasing competition in the PBSA market, developments like Carlton Hill set a new standard for what students can expect in terms of design, amenities, and environmental impact. The recognition from the Yorkshire Post Business Excellence Awards further solidifies Pickard Properties’ position as a leader in Leeds’ housing market.

“As a Leeds-based business, we are immensely proud to contribute to the city’s growth and to support its student population,” added Miles Pickard. “Carlton Hill is a testament to the power of innovation, sustainability, and community-focused development, and we’re thrilled to see it recognised on such a significant platform.”

As Carlton Hill continues to flourish, its legacy is already evident: a new benchmark for student accommodation, not just in Leeds, but across the UK.

Find out more about the work in Leeds here.