Fusion Students Unveils World’s Tallest Purpose-Built Student Accommodation in Leeds

Fusion Students has officially opened its first purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) in Leeds, marking a significant milestone with the launch of the world’s tallest PBSA building. The 43-storey tower, reaching 134 metres (440 feet), also stands as the tallest building in Yorkshire.

The development, located at Arena Point on Merrion Way, offers 633 beds in a prime central location. It is conveniently situated within a 15-minute walk of Leeds train station and several major educational institutions, including the University of Leeds, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds Conservatoire, and Leeds Arts University.

Residents benefit from panoramic city views and a combination of urban living with easy access to leading universities. The building was funded by Cain International, designed by Corstorphine and White, and constructed by Olympian Homes and RG Group. It opened in time for the 2026/27 academic year after a six-year project with a gross development value (GDV) of £95 million.

The Leeds tower features an extensive range of amenities tailored to student life. These include a large rooftop terrace overlooking the city, a recording studio, a photography studio, study spaces with bookable collaboration booths, a modern gym, a yoga studio, a private dining room, and a games room. Additionally, residents have access to free bike hire to promote sustainable travel around the city.

Fusion Students has designed its buildings to support positive living, focusing on how students study and socialise. Each residence offers thoughtfully planned social spaces, wellbeing facilities, and a resident programme centred on community, discovery, wellbeing, and growth.

Further benefits for residents include complimentary tea, coffee, and breakfast, super-fast WiFi, free laundry services, regular housekeeping, a comprehensive events schedule, and access to counselling and wellbeing support.

Currently, Fusion Students employs 15 staff members in Leeds, comprising both full- and part-time roles, contributing to a national workforce of 82 employees.

Laura Kurt, Managing Director at Fusion Students, commented: “Leeds’ institutions have global appeal, attracting talent from the UK and around the world to come and study. These students are heavily invested in their futures and want to maximise their chance of success; Fusion Students Arena Point allows them to do just that. Amenities students need to make their coursework easier, such as study spaces, recording studios and photography studios, mixed with places to socialise and connect and incredible services such as free housekeeping and laundry, make life at University easier. We’re incredibly proud to open the tallest purpose-built student accommodation building in Leeds as we build out our brand in this impressive city. Leeds represents 633 of the 1,142 new Fusion beds this year as we roll out the Fusion Students brand nationally. The business is committed to the long-term strategic investment opportunity PBSA provides and is actively looking to grow the platform, with new beds in the pipeline for 2027 too.”