Whether you value community, affordability or facilities, finding the right place to live is an important choice for students. University-operated or privately owned? This article discusses the best choice for Halls, detailing popular choices and highlighting the disproportionate cost of Newcastle University-owned accommodation.
Owned by the university, through partnerships and privately; the most common and popular place to live in your first year at university is Student Halls of Residence. Halls offer an excellent opportunity to meet new people and gain independence in a supportive environment.
Newcastle University accommodation varies in quality. Park View is the newest and widely regarded as the nicest of Newcastle University-owned accommodation. Neighbouring Marris House looks outdated adjacent to the commanding Park View tower blocks, although it is still much better than the now desolate Castle Leazes!
For private university halls, Unite students are a popular and deserving choice, they have multiple partnerships with Newcastle University, including the new Castle Leazes redevelopment. Wellington St Plaza, Portland Green and Newgate Court, to name but a few, are all popular amongst first years with great facilities and location.
Halls offer an excellent opportunity to meet new people and gain independence in a supportive environment.
The 24/25 price of Newcastle University-owned accommodation has risen an average of around 9% from academic year 23/24. Due to decreased funding, Newcastle University has risen the price of their accommodation disproportionately compared to private rental rises (6.5%) across Newcastle. Newcastle University is estimated to raise an additional £1.2 million from these price rises, raising around £730,000 from Park View price rises alone.
Estimated £1.2 million raised from disproportionate price rises
Whilst the university offers a great service in ResLife, Newcastle University regards its students as a money-making method. Disproportionately raising prices indicates the care the university has for its students. With cheaper prices and arguably better facilities, private accommodation may be the way to go.
