UK: Construction firm Legendre UK is moving into property development, with an initial focus on BTR and PBSA projects in Greater London.
The company has appointed Nicolas Swiderski, former managing director of Linkcity Australia, to lead the new venture as head of property development. The move replicates a similar model adopted by its French-based parent company Groupe Legendre, which operates as both a contractor and developer.
“As developers navigate uncertainty, we see a chance to step in, leveraging our resilience to capitalise on opportunities as well as our excellent construction knowledge, track record, and financial expertise,” said Swiderski.
Legendre described the move as “a natural progression” as it has already invested funding into some of its projects in the UK, including Sheepcote Road, an affordable housing site in Harrow for Pocket Living, and a residential scheme for Matching Green in Dockley Road, Bermondsey.
Legendre UK said it was planning to build out all of its development projects itself, taking advantage of its developer role to influence decision making from the project’s inception, while partnering with like-minded clients that prioritise environmental, social and corporate governance issues. It will place a particular emphasis on expanding its portfolio of retrofit projects, it said.
The Legendre UK development arm will target projects in cities including Brighton, Bristol and Birmingham, with its initial priority being residential, BTR, coliving, and PBSA within the Greater London area.
“These sectors offer resilient prospects even in times of uncertainty and align with the growing demand for affordable housing solutions across the country,” the company said.
