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Unite Group expects minor hit from coronavirus outbreak

Reservations for the next academic years are currently at 77% while the summer programme has been reduced

Unite Group PLC (LON:UTG) said the coronavirus outbreak has not caused a “noticeable impact” on sales for the next academic year, with reservations currently sitting at 77%.

The student accommodation firm has cut the summer programme, which accounts for 3% of rental income, and does not expect a material hit on earnings.

The FTSE 250-listed firm said it has implemented advice from the authorities and is in dialogue with universities to support students.

Some face-to-face teaching has been suspended in the weeks leading up to Easter. University campuses, libraries and halls of residence remain open.

Shares dropped 11% to 840.95p on Monday morning.