Work begins on Leeds residential development following £17.25m sale

Work has now commenced on-site for a multi-million-pound residential development on Kirkstall Road, Leeds.

The 111-apartment scheme, which is being delivered by KMRE and contractor Hollycroft Construction, has now been sold to Aberdeen Standard Investments (ASI) for £17.25m.

Kam Mogul, managing director of Leeds-based KMRE Group, said: “This is popular area in the city and is in walking distance to the business district. KMRE saw a big opportunity and acted quickly to develop the scheme. These are stylish, yet affordable rental apartments which are ideally suited to professionals.

“We are also delighted to have appointed Hollycroft Construction as the contractor for this significant development. Hollycroft has delivered a number of schemes for us and has continued to work on our ever-expanding portfolio of high-end schemes across the UK.

“Kirkstall Road is a rapidly changing part of the city. Considering Kirkstall’s close proximity to Leeds city centre and the wide range of public transport options on offer, this is a popular area of Leeds. Each apartment is designed to be generously sized, to encourage long term tenancies in a great location with a range of amenities.”

The residential development, which will complete in spring 2019, is going to be made up of one, two and three-bedroom rental apartments close to Leeds city centre.

Kam added: “Considering the likelihood of significant investment in the area due to its convenient location, and high-speed poised to bring further investment, there was an excellent chance for investors to benefit from high levels of capital appreciation and ASI saw that opportunity.”

Ed Crockett, fund manager at Aberdeen Standard Investments, commented: “This deal reinforces our long-standing commitment to the private rented sector in the UK, where we continue to target high quality stock in key cities.

“The market is currently worth more than £1 trillion and is set to grow with an anticipated 24% increase in private renting by 2022. With its secure long-term rental streams, residential is a compelling opportunity for investors.

“But product is key. Our experience in Europe, shows that what really counts is being able to create communities that people want to live in for decades. We identified this development by KMRE as a major opportunity.”

Toby Nicholson, head of build to rent at Colliers International, represented Aberdeen Standard Investments during the transaction.