University leaders have confirmed a shortlist of six has progressed to the joint competitive dialogue stage.

The companies in the running are  Sir Robert McAlpine, Miller Construction, Balfour Beatty Student Accommodation, Kier Northern, City Heart and Evans Management Limited.

The potential development would represent an increase of 500 beds on current levels as well as replacing existing accommodation.

Subject to planning approval, the new halls of residence will be located on Penglais farm, on land immediately behind the existing Pentre Jane Morgan student village.

Building work on the new halls is not expected to start until the summer of 2012 at the earliest with the first students expected to take up residence in September 2013. Construction costs are expected to be in the region of £40m to £45m.

Rebecca Davies, Pro Vice-Chancellor at Aberystwyth University said: “This project represents the biggest single strategic element of the University’s strategic plan and underlines its commitment to improving the quality of the accommodation it has to offer to students with an emphasis on self-catering en-suite facilities.”

“As the process unfolds, as well as working closely with the local community and planners, the University will be engaging with student representatives to ensure the new halls provide the living experience, in terms of social and technological facilities, that future generations of Aberystwyth students will expect.”