Management of Lancaster buildings transfers to a new provider

Lancaster-based CityBlock has transferred the operations of two student accommodation blocks in the city centre to a new provider, Host.

The buildings, on Marton Street and Penny Street, will be run by Host, which has almost 30 years’ experience in delivering award-winning services to students.

For more than 20 years, CityBlock has been proud to provide a home for generations of students in Lancaster.

The cost of the deal has been undisclosed.

Existing staff who work at both buildings will be employed by Host from today, 19th January 2026.

As a result, CityBlock is no longer responsible for the management of the building, student welfare or customer care, with all aspects of management transferring to Host.

This transition ensures continuity for residents and reflects CityBlock’s commitment to safeguarding the standard of service students have come to expect.

Trevor Bargh, chief executive at CityBlock, said: “While the buildings themselves will be co-branded and owned by CityBlock, it is time for us to transfer the management of the buildings to another provider.

"Several years ago we handed another student accommodation site in Durham over to Host and had a very positive response from students living there.

"This experience meant it was an easy decision for us. I wish all the residents and Host all the best for the future.”

Award-winning Host operates across 18 major university cities in the UK and is a key player in the UK’s student housing market.

Alison Bargh, CityBlock operations director, said: “Our preferred choice for a new service provider was Host; the company’s values are closely aligned with those of CityBlock, and students are at the heart of everything the company does.

"I’d like to thank the teams at both locations for their commitment and care over the years.

"Our achievements have always been a result of a collective effort, shaped by passionate people who believed in creating places where students truly felt at home. I wish everyone a successful future.”

The two purpose-built, high-end developments together house over 130 UK and international students and four commercial tenants.

 John Nesbitt, managing director, Host, said: "We’re delighted to be taking on the management of the Marton Street and Penny Street buildings in Lancaster and to be working with CityBlock once again.

"Being named Best Private Housing in 2025 reflects the strength of our management approach and our focus on exceptional service, safety and community.

"We’re excited to bring this level of service to CityBlock students, welcoming residents and teams into the Host community and building on the people-first foundations already in place.”