HGP, the Lloyds-backed equity investor in the UK living sector, has partnered with leading build-to-rent developer and operator, PLATFORM_, to form a £150 million joint venture to deliver a 451-apartment BTR scheme in Leeds, known as Sweetfields. It represents the first phase of PLATFORM_’s transformative 1.3 million sq ft mixed-use development on Sweet Street, in the South Bank regeneration area of Leeds.
Scheduled for completion at the start of 2027, the previously vacant site will become a thriving mixed-use community, featuring a mix of studio, one, two, and three-bedroom apartments, complemented by extensive amenities including a gym, resident lounges, co-working spaces, extensive roof terraces and curated green spaces.
The homes will be rated EPC B or above and feature renewable energy sources, energy-efficient heating and lighting systems, and smart in-home technologies. This first phase will also significantly contribute towards the aims of Leeds City Council’s Housing Strategy 2022-27 and its Best City Ambition initiative.
Alongside the residential offering, the first phase includes the refurbishment of a historic pub, The Commercial Inn, and creation of a 4,000 sq ft convenience grocery store. A new public square will serve as the focal point of the new neighbourhood, designed to foster community interaction and create an attractive destination for residents and visitors alike.
PLATFORM_ has also collaborated with renowned international street artist Kid Acne to create a mural on the northeast corner of the site and the façade of The Commercial Inn. The artwork helps breathe new life into the scheme, creating an iconic landmark whilst the new development comes together.
HGP has formed a JV with McGoff Group (“McGoff”) committing £13m to deliver the new Downtown Victoria North build-to-rent scheme in Manchester.
The development is situated on a former gasworks on Rochdale Road and represents a key element of the wider Victoria North regeneration programme. Construction work has now started and is scheduled to complete in late 2025.
The development of one, two and three-bedroom apartments and townhouses is situated a 10-minute walk from the centre of Manchester and will provide tenants with a high-quality living experience.
The completed site will feature extensive landscaping, including a communal garden courtyard with seating areas, pocket square and private gardens. It will also offer a reception with spacious seating area and business centre, a 24/7 concierge service, a residents’ lounge, fully equipped gym, underground car parking and bicycle storage.
Housing Growth Partnership has invested £2.1m alongside Eutopia Homes in a Build to Rent development in Exeter. The scheme, ‘Exeter Gateway’, is HGP’s first investment alongside Eutopia and its first in the BTR sector and is set to deliver 51 units, including 10 affordable, comprising a mix of 1, 2 and 3 bed units over a maximum of 5 storeys.
Scott Hammond – CEO of Eutopia Homes commented “HGP’s investment into the emerging BTR sector is great news for the industry. Exeter Gateway offers great rental prospects for professionals who face limited opportunities to rent well designed apartments. As part of the development, we will be offering 20% of the units for key workers at a discounted market rent – the first such offering in the City”
John McKeon, Investment Director of HGP commented: ‘“We are delighted to be supporting our first Build to Rent Scheme alongside Eutopia. Scott and the team at Eutopia have a strong track record of delivery in the BTR sector and the Exeter scheme represents an excellent opportunity for HGP’s entrance into this burgeoning sector of the market”.
