University of Sussex

QMPF acted as financial advisor to the University of Sussex on its c.£225m transaction to develop a 2,117 bed student accommodation project on the University’s campus with associated student amenities and a new student union facility. The project which was funded by a public bond is wrapped by Assured Guaranty and is the largest raised in the sector to fund the construction of new student accommodation. As part of the partnership with the University, Balfour Beatty will design, build, and operate the new residences for 50 years and the University will retain the delivery of pastoral care and student administrative services.

QMPF advised the University on the project since its inception through its subsequent procurement and the process to financial close, working alongside property and legal advisors. Our role included bid evaluation, financial modelling and advice on the associated commercial and financial considerations for the University.

Allan Spencer, Director of Finance at the University of Sussex said:

“This significant accommodation transaction is fundamental to the continued growth in size of the University and the quality of our offering to students. QMPF have provided excellent support throughout with their authoritative team and strength in depth. They provided us with rapid and clear monitoring from dialogue and bid stage to the final deal with advice on details as well as the overall deal. Having them working with us has given us the confidence that we were achieving a market leading offer.”