Universities typically have a series of major considerations in choosing the partnership solution that is right for them Considering a partnership is a significant step for a university, particularly if it has traditionally relied solely on its own accommodation, operated by an in ‑ house team. Many different factors will influence the decision around the most appropriate solution: there is no one size fits all. Each university will reflect on its own balance of priorities, which form part of wider reflections around its residential strategy and how it prepares for its capital programme. SFG explores this process in its research papers (see previous page), which includes aligning estate and residential strategies to the corporate plan, establishing governance support and clear delegated processes, data room preparation, and ensuring the project team is properly led and resourced. Balance sheet treatment. One of the biggest drivers for partnerships has been the ability to achieve off ‑ balance sheet status, freeing the university to use its borrowing headroom on academic ‑ related investment. The nature of the partnership structure affects how it is treated through the balance sheet, so this area needs very careful planning with auditors to ensure the university’s requirements will be met. How should it be procured? Universities are tightly governed by procurement rules, whether they are considered as Contracting Authorities under the Procurement Act 2023 or not. Even though property transactions are considered outside of the regulations, universities are always keen to ensure that they are getting the best value, so will want to balance the risks, opportunities, timescales and costs of different approaches. Page 40 | SFG | Meeting demand for modernised university-owned accommodation