Build-to-rent (BTR) developer and operator, PLATFORM_, recently submitted a planning application to Leeds City Council. 

The submission included plans to build a 1.3 million square foot mixed-use development. The aim is for this to extend to the city centre to the south and accelerate the regeneration of the South Bank area.

Once complete, the brownfield site which has been vacant since 2009 will be transformed into a new development spanning eight acres.

Jean-Marc Vandevivere, chief executive office at PLATFORM_, said: “We see fantastic opportunities in Leeds, one of the fastest-growing cities in the UK, and the South Bank area in particular. We are proud to present a transformational vision to create a community-first development that epitomises the very best of inclusive, modern day living.”

“The Sweet Street development represents an exciting and evolutionary addition to our portfolio, whilst also underlining our commitment to long-term investment in the region. We are aiming to commence works to bring our vision to life in 2023.”

The Sweet Street masterplan 

The Leeds City Council’s ambitious Housing Strategy 2022-27 hopes to improve the housing stock across the city and improve the quality of life.

To help achieve this the development aims to build up to 1,350 BTR apartments. 

These will include a gym, resident lounges, and a co-working space. The apartments will be a mix of a new studio, one, two, and three-bed homes.

Renewable energy sources, smart in-home technologies, and energy-efficient systems will help to create a sustainable development.

Two Grade A sustainable office buildings, new leisure, and retail opportunities will also be included.  

People will be able to live, work and socialise under one roof. A public square has also been proposed that will include shops and cafes.

Leeds Central rail station is only a 10 minutes walk away. A range of shops, restaurants, health centres, and schools are also nearby.

Matt Willcock, Development Director at PLATFORM_, said: “Intrinsic to our design has been positive collaboration with Leeds City Council and stakeholders, including Leeds Civic Trust and the Holbeck Neighbourhood Forum. This has helped us to carefully shape our proposals to ensure that the scheme responds to the requirements of the city and enriches existing neighbourhoods, helping to futureproof housing options and aid economic growth.

“As one of the first BTR developers and operators to launch in the UK, PLATFORM_ has a strong track record of delivering quality residential schemes across the country. We now hope to take this experience forward to successfully deliver a sustainable community in the heart of Leeds that will be enjoyed for generations to come.”