Plans to build a £75m student accommodation development in Cardiff have taken a step forward after a main contractor was appointed.

Located on Glossop Road, the former West Wing of Cardiff Royal Infirmary, is being demolished to make way for a 644-bed student development, which is due to become operational in time for the 2019-20 academic year.

The project is being delivered by the development arm of Mace, who confirmed that Galliford Try has been selected as the main contractor.

The scheme will consist of a mixture of apartments, studio flats and cluster accommodation.

Commenting on the development, Mace's chief operating office for the site, David Grover, said: "The appointment of a contractor marks a major step for our student housing portfolio.

"Over the last two years, Mace has been strategically investing in a diverse portfolio of student housing projects across the UK's major university towns. We are continuing this approach and are still looking for potential development sites."

Meanwhile Gaillford's south west area director, Mark Wuthoff, added: "We are delighted to have been trusted by Mace with this much-needed student accommodation project for Cardiff.

"We have an excellent track record in providing high-quality accommodation within Wales and we look forward to building on that reputation at Glossop Road in conjunction with all the stakeholders involved."