In a recent article published on the Fire Protection Association website by FPA Media, it was reported that the Building Safety Regulator (BSR) has launched an investigation into a newly completed student housing scheme over a suspected breach of building regulations.

Developed by Integritas Property Group, Deakin’s Yard in Newcastle-under-Lyme comprises 273 residential units and was due to open to students on 15 August 2025. The BSR obtained an interim High Court Injunction to prevent “unlawful occupation” of the high-rise block in Staffordshire.

A spokesperson for the BSR said: “We were granted an injunction to stop the unlawful occupation of the building. The welfare of those due to occupy the building is our primary priority. We’re working closely with relevant organisations.”

According to Construction News, the development project was initially being delivered by a Liverpool-based firm, Core M (Contractors). However, work was halted in 2018 after the contractor went into administration. The half-finished site was eventually taken over by Integritas in 2023.

Integritas said: “We can confirm that the launch of Deakin’s Yard has been temporarily delayed, pending the receipt of a final certificate.

“We are working closely with the Health and Safety Executive and the Building Inspectorate to address the matter and ensure all requirements are met.

“Our priority is to resolve this as quickly as possible and to ensure the building meets the highest standards of safety and compliance before launching.”

Keele University confirmed it had been advised that the privately owned accommodation would “not be able to open as planned” and that it was supporting all affected students. A delay in the opening of the residential student block could impact nearly 230 students ahead of the new term.

MP Adam Jogee said it was “utterly unacceptable” that a “brand new building can get to the point of opening with such serious safety concerns that the BSR has had to step in at the 11th hour to protect lives”.

He added: “Serious questions need answering about how this project was granted planning permission, the building control processes in place, and why the project was allowed to progress when safety concerns had already been raised. My constituents – and the students affected – deserve to know who is responsible and how this will be put right.”

In a statement, Gill Heesom, Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council’s Cabinet member for Community Safety and Wellbeing, said the council was “aware of the situation at Deakin’s Yard” and was liaising with the HSE, local universities, and other relevant organisations and agencies to support those who would be affected.

To read the article in full visit: www.thefpa.co.uk/news/student-residence-development-blocked-from-opening-over-safety-concerns