University of St Andrews receives 61 affordable homes from Kingdom Initiatives

Kingdom Initiatives and the University of St Andrews are celebrating the formal handover of 61 high-quality affordable homes in the town. This collaboration marks the beginning of a new era as they join forces for the first time to create a ‘university village’ at The Grange, setting a new standard for affordable housing for postgraduate students and university staff in St Andrews.

The development offers a mix of houses and cottage flats for rent, with some properties designated as houses of multiple occupation. The University of St Andrews will handle occupancy agreements with customers, while Kingdom Initiatives, a division of the esteemed Kingdom Group, will manage and maintain these homes with care and dedication.

Linda Leslie, Chair of Kingdom Group, expressed her delight in being part of this groundbreaking partnership with the University of St Andrews. She highlighted the remarkable outcomes that can be achieved through close collaboration and emphasized their commitment to constructing innovative and sustainable communities. Linda Leslie praised the University of St Andrews for its prestigious reputation and expressed her pride in supporting the University’s mission to provide top-notch affordable homes for postgraduate students.

Professor Dame Sally Mapstone, Principal of the University of St Andrews, echoed Linda Leslie’s sentiments by acknowledging the tangible benefits brought about by their unique partnership with Kingdom Initiatives. The investment made in providing high-quality, affordable, and sustainable housing showcases the University’s dedication to improving the lives of postgraduate students and academics while also aligning with ambitious net-zero targets.

All 61 homes have been constructed according to Building Control’s Silver Active standard of sustainability. These properties are highly energy-efficient and equipped with solar panels. Additionally, the homes feature hydrogen-ready boilers, a forward-thinking approach that supports the transition to more sustainable energy sources, contributing significantly to the reduction of the project’s carbon footprint.

One of the residents at The Grange, Laura Marquez Navas, shared her experience of moving into her new home with her nine-year-old son last September. Originally from Spain, Laura described the relief she felt when the University’s accommodation team allocated her a house after months of fruitless searching for a place to live. She expressed her gratitude for the beautiful views at The Grange and the comfortable living conditions provided by the University for postgraduate students and families.

The partnership between Kingdom Initiatives and the University of St Andrews marks a significant milestone in the realm of affordable housing, demonstrating the power of collaboration in creating sustainable and innovative communities. By prioritizing sustainability, energy efficiency, and affordability, this project sets a prime example for future developments aiming to achieve net-zero goals while enhancing the quality of life for residents.