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| Who is Domain? |
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Domain was set up by Moorfield after careful analysis of the market and the opportunity. The conclusion was that there was a significant gap in a market where the number of students and key-workers seeking high quality affordable accommodation was likely to increase and remain at a high level. Domain was established to focus on developing high quality affordable accommodation for university students and key-workers (such as medical students, doctors, nurses, and hospital workers). At many universities throughout the UK there is an acute shortage of affordable quality accommodation. Over recent years, the number of students in higher full-time education has increased substantially, and university finances have been targeted towards educational facilities and not the provision of living accommodation. Key-workers from hospitals and other public sector bodies (eg the fire service, the police, teachers etc) have also experienced accommodation constraints due to the relatively low income of their profession. Responsive to the Environment - All projects were developed with consideration given to local environmental and community issues. Domain worked with local authorities, NHS Trusts and Universities to provide high quality, affordable and well located accommodation for key-workers and students. The projects should be considered as part of the regeneration of inner cities through a partnership approach. Quality Management - Domain provided a comprehensive and responsive service to residents via an on-site management, security and maintenance team. The management system, based upon the principles of ISO 9002, ensured a quality service. Tenant involvement with Domain schemes is encouraged with liaison committees meeting on a monthly basis.
All the schemes provided superb quality city centre accommodation in a highly secure and comfortable environment. The buildings were laid out in flats of six or four bedrooms, each flat having a communal kitchen/ living area that is comprehensively equipped. All bedrooms had full en-suite facilities, and furnishings include a bed, wardrobe, desk and chair and bedside cabinet. In addition each room had separate telephone and data points and all living areas had a colour television with a Sky Digital package and television licence provided. The schemes were designed to be highly energy-efficient and had a comprehensive CCTV system, together with 24-hour on-site staffing. |
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Background
Moorfield
project managed the development of all of its schemes from identifying
and acquiring the site, through design, financing, planning, construction,
marketing, opening and then operating the scheme.
Sites were identified having undertaken detailed analysis of the cities in which
the universities and other higher education establishments are based.
This included a study of the quantity and quality of existing accommodation,
the number of students and where they currently live relative to their
place of study. The attitude of the university’s senior management to
a private sector provider of accommodation is also a material consideration
(as Domain may be in competition with the accommodation provided by the
university), as are the availability of suitable sites in close proximity
to where students study, together with the chances of success of any
development proposal in the local planning environment.