■ The purpose-built student accommodation sector looks set to continue its strong growth. Student numbers are recovering and are set to increase further with the removal of the cap. With increased numbers, there is the need for more supply. The level of supply required will vary by town and city depending on the strength and type of demand. It will also depend on the quality, location and price of existing supply. We expect the ‘flight to quality’ to continue with higher ranking institutions benefiting most (subject to their expansion plans).

■ Investment into the sector has increased substantially this year and looks set to continue. Perhaps the biggest barrier to its continuation will be sourcing opportunities for investment. As competition increases with more actual and potential investors from across the globe looking at the sector, it is likely that we will see further compression in yields.

■ The biggest risks to the sector are political. The rhetoric around migration is unhelpful and the risks arising from an EU referendum are apparent. Policy makers should acknowledge the important role that higher education students play in both local and national economies. Students also have a major impact on local housing markets. The provision of more student accommodation can play a role in solving the housing crisis and should be considered as part of a larger solution.