Watkin Jones, a prominent name in the UK construction sector, has recently secured funding to develop a £96 million purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) project in Stratford, East London. This ambitious development will house 397 students and represents a significant investment in the local economy. But beyond providing much-needed student housing, this project offers numerous opportunities for local businesses, including Plant Hire in South East England.


Boosting the Local Economy and Job Market
The construction of the Stratford PBSA will be a boon to the local economy. Large-scale projects like this typically generate significant demand for a variety of services and products. Local businesses, from suppliers of building materials to food services and retail outlets, stand to benefit from increased activity and the influx of workers and future residents.
Moreover, the project will create numerous job opportunities in the region, both during and after construction. These range from construction and engineering roles to ongoing property management and maintenance positions once the building is operational. The local workforce will see a spike in employment opportunities, which is a positive development for Stratford and the surrounding areas.
Addressing the Housing Crisis
The UK is experiencing a well-documented housing crisis, with a particular strain in high-demand areas like London and Kent. The shortage of affordable housing options, especially for students, has been a growing concern. The new PBSA in Stratford aims to alleviate some of this pressure by providing 397 modern, fully-equipped beds specifically designed for students. This development not only eases the demand for private rental accommodation, thereby helping to stabilise local rental markets, but also ensures that students have access to safe, purpose-built housing close to their educational institutions.
Opportunities for the Plant Hire in South East England
For the UK plant hire industry, this construction project represents a significant business opportunity. The scale of the PBSA development means a substantial requirement for construction equipment, including excavators, cranes, and other heavy machinery. Companies like H. E. Services (Plant Hire) Ltd are ideally positioned to meet these needs, offering a wide range of machinery available for hire on flexible terms—whether for a day, a week, a month, or longer.
H. E. Services’ Strood depot, located in Kent, is the nearest facility to the Stratford project site, and our Ashford depot is also close by. This proximity offers logistical advantages, including reduced transportation costs and faster delivery times. For construction firms working on the PBSA project, hiring from the local Strood depot not only supports local business but also ensures that equipment needs are met promptly and efficiently, minimising downtime and keeping the project on schedule.
The Role of H. E. Services (Plant Hire) Ltd
H. E. Services (Plant Hire) Ltd, with its extensive fleet of plant machinery, plays a crucial role in supporting construction projects across the UK. For the Stratford PBSA, the company can provide essential equipment such as diggers, dumpers and telehandlers. This support is critical not only during the initial groundworks and structural phases but also throughout the finishing and landscaping stages.
Furthermore, the flexibility offered by H. E. Services allows contractors to adjust their equipment needs as the project progresses, ensuring cost-efficiency and the availability of the right tools for the job at every stage. The company’s reputation for reliable service and high-quality machinery makes it a preferred partner for major construction projects like this one.
The £96m Stratford PBSA project is more than just a significant construction endeavour; it’s a catalyst for economic growth, job creation, and housing relief in a densely populated urban area. For local businesses and industries, including the UK plant hire sector, this development provides ample opportunities to contribute to and benefit from the project’s success. Companies like H. E. Services (Plant Hire) Ltd, with their comprehensive range of machinery and strategic depot locations, are well-positioned to support this and other similar projects, reinforcing their role as vital players in the construction industry.
As Stratford continues to evolve and expand, projects like the PBSA not only enhance the area’s appeal but also ensure that its infrastructure keeps pace with the needs of its growing population. For all involved, from construction companies to local suppliers and beyond, the future looks bright as these developments take shape.
Contact H. E. Services for Plant Hire in South East England
If you are based in the UK, H. E. Services can fulfil your plant rental needs. Simply give us a call today on 0208 804 2000 or email nhc@heservices.co.uk for a quote.