The first phase of the project will see Seddon build two brand new accommodation blocks at Barnes hall of residence at the centre of the University’s 600 acre campus.

The development project will see 453 en-suite bedrooms built across the two blocks, with the facility ready for the 2017/18 term.

Seddon is starting on site this month and once work is complete the firm will redevelop the former Hawthorns hall of residence in Keele village, with the redundant site making way for 83 new homes for sale.

Jonathan Seddon, Seddon Construction’s managing director, said: “This major project builds on what has already been a good year for Seddon in the Midlands and, more importantly, on work we have delivered for our long-standing partner, Keele University over many years.

“As a local, family business, it’s important that we spend as much as we can in the surrounding area, so the more materials, labour and sub-contractor packages we can source locally the better. Not only is it good common sense, but it’s reinvesting the University’s money into the local community.

“In addition, we’ll be able to continue employing and training lots of people from the region and, as a National Skills Academy, this project will enable us to take on 10 new apprentices from the local area.”