Demolition and site clearance work at the 60 Commercial Road site is currently being carried-out by specialist Cantillon.

Construction information specialist Glenigan said Wates, Mace and Morgan Sindall are on the short list for the main build with a winner due to be confirmed in January.

Developer the Carlyle Group has plans for a 19-storey tower containing 417 student rooms with a 25,000 sq ft office building behind.

Completion of the office building is expected in late 2014 and the student accommodation building in summer 2015