UK: Investment group Housing Growth Partnership and developer and operator PLATFORM_ have formed a £150 million JV to deliver 451 BTR apartments in Leeds.
The partners will deliver the first phase of PLATFORM_’s 1.3 million square foot mixed-use development on Sweet Street, in the South Bank regeneration area of Leeds.
Scheduled to complete in early 2027, the previously vacant site will feature a mix of studio, one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments. Amenities will include a gym, residents’ lounges, coworking spaces, roof terraces and green spaces.
Alongside the residential offering, the first phase of the Sweet Street scheme includes the refurbishment of a historic pub – The Commercial Inn, and the creation of a 4,000 square foot convenience store. The focal point of the scheme will be a new public square designed “to foster community interaction and create an attractive destination for both residents and visitors”.
The BTR homes will be rated EPC B or above and feature renewable energy sources, energy-efficient heating and lighting systems, alongside smart in-home technologies. This reflects PLATFORM_’s commitment to sustainable living and alignment with Leeds City Council’s ambition to become a net zero carbon city by 2030. The first phase will also significantly contribute towards the aims of Leeds City Council’s Housing Strategy 2022-27 and its Best City Ambition initiative.
Jean-Marc Vandevivere, CEO of PLATFORM_, said: “Our new joint venture with HGP will accelerate the delivery of much-needed homes in Leeds, bringing an important city centre site that has been vacant for over 15 years back into use. This latest addition to the PLATFORM_ development pipeline embodies our long-term commitment to the city’s growth, creating a sustainable, inclusive community. This project will not only provide new homes but will also contribute to the ongoing revitalisation of the South Bank area, supporting Leeds’ economic growth and inward investment goals.”
Colin Bennett, investment director at Housing Growth Partnership, added: “Our partnership with PLATFORM_ will deliver a landmark development in Leeds, which will contribute to the regeneration of the South Bank, providing new homes, and enhancing the local economy. It extends what has been a transformative year for HGP’s Living platform, which has seen us significantly scale our funding into the PBSA and multifamily sectors. We look forward to working with PLATFORM_, and seeing this vibrant community come to life and the positive social impact it will deliver.”
Winvic Construction has been appointed as the main contractor, marking its third collaboration with PLATFORM_.
“We are looking forward to working with PLATFORM_ once again on this significant scheme, which will set new standards for sustainable urban living in Leeds. Our shared focus on quality and community-centred design ensures we will deliver a vibrant and sustainable neighbourhood that future generations can be proud of. This development will play a key role in transforming the Leeds skyline, and we are proud to be part of it. With our collaborative approach and focus on quality and excellence, we’re confident in the successful delivery of this development, and we look forward to progressing through the construction phases toward completion,” said Mark Jones, managing director for multi-room at Winvic.
