Students struggled to find accommodation at the start of the academic year when deposits for Elms Village were returned to unsuccessful applicants uncomfortably close to the beginning of term. In some cases undergraduates had just two weeks to find alternative housing in areas already saturated with students.

BY RUTH MAGENNIS

In the Holyland area of South Belfast, known for its high student population, tensions are rising this semester between residents and students. Local newspaper, the South Belfast News reported that PACT (Partners and Community Together) were concerned at the lack of accommodation provided by Queen’s. Whilst the Advice Centre in the Student’s Union noted no obvious increase in the number of people needing assistance, they normally direct enquiries to agencies such as the HMO network, and it was confirmed that the Landlord’s Association dealt with a huge increase in students seeking housing this September.

A Queen’s spokesperson confirmed that there was a “significant and unexpected” increase in demand, but that all students affected were refunded and given assistance with finding alternative accommodation.

 

“In line with recent demand the accommodation office is currently reviewing its room allocation policy and…has been working with the local authorities to obtain planning approval to increase its student accommodation.”