UHI Shetland Redirects Accommodation Plans from Knab Site

UHI Shetland has officially decided to shift its focus away from developing student accommodation at the Knab site in Lerwick due to concerns regarding the project’s viability. This decision comes as part of a broader reassessment of accommodation strategies for the institution.

In a recent statement, UHI Shetland principal and CEO Professor Jane Lewis confirmed that the college will instead aim to reinstate the top floor of its Port Arthur House accommodation unit located in Scalloway. This site is situated opposite UHI Shetland’s campus and had previously housed nearly 30 students before a temporary closure in 2018 due to structural issues.

The Knab redevelopment, which is part of a master plan by the Shetland Islands Council (SIC), was initially intended to incorporate student accommodation alongside housing. However, Stephen Leask, chair of the UHI Shetland board, described the project as “unfundable,” emphasizing that while funding could be sought, sustainable operation remained a significant concern.

Shifts in Accommodation Strategy

The proposal for student accommodation at the Knab site was one of several options being explored. A creative hub was also considered for the historic Anderson Institute building, but councillors were informed that this plan had been deemed “unsustainable.” Additionally, previous discussions suggested utilizing the Janet Courtney Hostel for student housing, though this building is now slated for conversion into flats by the SIC.

Lewis stated, “We’re still keen to develop student accommodation, but we will not be doing that at the Knab.” She elaborated that previous considerations included both accommodation and creative facilities, but the current financial landscape has led to a reassessment of those plans.

As part of the new strategy, UHI Shetland is working on a business case to upgrade the upstairs of Port Arthur House, aligning it with sustainability goals to achieve a net zero standard. There had been no active accommodation on the upper floor for some time, but structural testing has been conducted to assess its condition.

Future Developments and Funding Support

The Knab redevelopment project is set to receive significant investment, with the Scottish Government committing up to £9.6 million as part of the islands growth deal. Of this funding, £3 million is earmarked for a creative hub, while £500,000 is allocated for student accommodation. The primary focus of this grant will be on housing developments.

A report from a recent meeting of the SIC’s audit committee indicated that a total of 145 housing units are planned for the former Anderson High School site, with development phases already underway. Local contractor Tulloch Developments Limited has been awarded the contract for core infrastructure works.

Despite the challenges, there is potential for progress. In May, councillors noted an increase in the affordable housing funding budget allocation for Shetland following a policy reversal by the Scottish Government. Additionally, local company Ocean Kinetics has successfully bid for the Bruce Hostel, another building on the site, with plans to convert it into flats.

Overall, while UHI Shetland navigates these changes, the focus on providing suitable student accommodation remains a priority, albeit through adjusted plans and new locations.