Backstage Academy puts spotlight on Wakefield economy

Wakefield’s Backstage Academy has underlined its commitment to investing in the city and is opening dedicated student accommodation to help boost the local economy.

Opening for their 2018 September cohort the Waterfront Apartment block will welcome 90 students providing bespoke accommodation close to the university accredited Academy.

Specifically designed for students pursuing degrees in the live events industry as well as being close to major communication routes it has its own rehearsal studio.

Adrian Brooks, chairman of Production Park and the founder of Backstage Academy said the apartments were the latest step in consolidating the university bid for Wakefield and linking its growth to the economic development of the area.

“We have always worked closely with local estate agents to find good quality accommodation but many of our students have gone outside the city to alternative purpose-built apartments. The Waterfront will help fill a gap for them,” he said.

A short walk from the centre of Wakefield and its unique independent retail, evening economy and cultural offer as well as close to both city centre railway stations, the apartments range from £85 – £150 per week and include single, double and twin bedrooms.

Located at Production Park in South Kirby, Backstage Academy students previously lived in dispersed private rented accommodation around Wakefield and Leeds.

Currently offering degree level programmes for the live events industry accredited by The University of Bolton, Backstage Academy hopes to become the first university in Wakefield.

Production Park is a collaborative hub of production companies for the live events industry which designs and builds stages for some of the biggest names in the music industry. Recent projects include Sam Smith ‘The Thrill of It’ and Beyoncé and JAY Z tours.

“Backstage Academy’s investment in student accommodation is part of our wider plan to establish Wakefield’s first ever university. Wakefield is one of the only cities in the UK to not have a University and Backstage Academy fills that gap,” said Mr Brook.

“Production Park continues to cater for the international stage but remains loyal to Wakefield and we want our students to be too.”

Glen Rowe, MD of Backstage Academy and Tour Director for Muse said: “It is key that Backstage Academy offers high quality, affordable flats that champion innovation and accessibility whilst boosting Wakefield’s economy.

“Students no longer need to travel from Leeds and the accommodation encourages students to stay in Wakefield and invest in the economy.”