British Property Federation launches PBSA Board

The British Property Federation (BPF) has established a new Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA) Board to lead advocacy and engagement for the sector, underscoring its role in addressing the UK’s housing and education challenges.

Chaired by Joe Lister, CEO of Unite Students, the Board brings together eight senior executives from the UK’s largest PBSA providers, collectively representing over 250,000 student beds. Its remit includes strengthening collaboration with national, regional and local government and championing the role of PBSA in driving economic growth, regeneration, and housing supply.

The creation of the Board comes amid rising demand for student accommodation and increasing pressure on local housing markets. PBSA is seen as a key mechanism for alleviating housing shortages in university towns by diverting demand from traditional private rented housing to purpose-built, professionally managed developments. Since 2015, approximately £90 billion has been invested in the PBSA sector.

Joe Lister said the new Board will help to deliver well-located, high-quality accommodation that supports the UK's higher education system and local communities. "Our biggest challenge is meeting rapidly evolving student needs. As providers, we’re committed to delivering sustainable, affordable homes that support long-term university growth,” he said.

The Board will also work to raise awareness of how PBSA supports the Government’s skills and growth agendas by enhancing the UK’s appeal as a global study destination. The group will operate alongside the BPF’s existing Student Accommodation Committee and executive leadership team.

Melanie Leech, Chief Executive of the BPF, said: “PBSA plays a critical role in the national effort to improve housing provision, enhance student welfare and support regional economies. This Board will make a strong case for the sector’s value, particularly as part of the solution to housing pressure in key towns and cities.”

Board members include:

Joe Lister, Unite Students

Matt Merrick, iQ Student Accommodation

Alex Pease, Watkin Jones

Ashling Fox, Student Roost

Duncan Garrood, Empiric Student Property

Elaine Hewitt, UPP

Nick Porter, The Dot Group

Graham Rogers, Homes for Students

The Board’s formation marks a coordinated effort to align PBSA development with broader policy priorities, such as urban regeneration, job creation, and sustainable construction.