Andorra Converts Hotel Pol into University Residence in Sant Julià de Lòria

Construction work to convert the former Hotel Pol into a university residence in Sant Julià de Lòria will begin early next year, local government sources confirmed.

The parish council aims to launch an international tender for the project in the second quarter of this year, with the contract expected to be awarded by the end of 2026. The deal would cover both the building's renovation and its operation for 50 years, providing sufficient time for the winning company to achieve profitability.

In recent months, officials have finalised details of the public tender. A working group involving the Sant Julià de Lòria council, the Andorran government, and the University of Andorra has completed a key feasibility study. "We have it ready to present publicly. We believe it is an essential step for the project to move forward," said the parish's leading councillor, Cerni Cairat.

The council's priority remains handing responsibility to a private firm, given the estimated €12 million cost, which exceeds its current financial capacity. This follows major recent expenditures, such as rebuilding the Cultural Centre in the parish.

To attract bidders, the tender specifications will ensure investor returns while keeping rents affordable for students. A price cap will limit single rooms to €500 per month and shared apartments to around €250 per person, based on a survey of University of Andorra students last year.

Beyond student housing, the facility will offer affordable accommodation for young people and services open to all parish residents, helping position Sant Julià de Lòria as a hub for higher education.