The University of British Columbia plans to develop a new $559.9-million student residence complex on its main Vancouver campus.

The provincial government will provide $300 million in funding while UBC invests the remaining $259.9 million. The B.C. government investment is the province’s largest contribution to a single construction project in UBC’s history.

“We are grateful to the B.C. government for this historic $300-million investment in the UBC Vancouver campus,” said UBC President and Vice-Chancellor Benoit-Antoine Bacon during a news conference. “This support will be transformative in providing much-needed additional student housing and childcare for our community. By working together, we are alleviating significant pressures on our students and the local rental market, and further enhancing an environment where academic excellence and personal well-being can flourish.” 

The five-building complex will be located on the Lower Mall, which is currently the site of St. John’s College. According to a news release, the buildings will include an eight-storey hybrid mass timber and wood frame structure.

The overall development will contain 1,508 student beds, including 175 replacements, intended mainly for graduate students. Other features will include 37 new childcare spaces, a 400-seat dining hall, common amenity space, and academic and administrative office spaces.

“We know people want to find homes near where they live, work and study in British Columbia,” said B.C. Premier David Eby during the news conference. “Our government is building on-campus housing at an unprecedented pace – including our biggest project to date right here at UBC – helping more students find a safe, secure and affordable place to call home and relieving pressure on the rental market.” 

The residence units will be self-contained suites consisting primarily of independent studios, four-bedroom shared units and a mix of two-to-three-bedroom units, which may support students with families or multiple single students, depending on demand.

There will also be about 400 additional units without kitchens. Amenities will include an event space, fitness and games room, music practice rooms, laundry facilities and study rooms.

Construction is slated to begin in fall 2026 with the project becoming operational in phases until its anticipated fall 2029 completion.