PLATFORM_, in partnership with the Lloyds-backed equity investor Housing Growth Partnership (HGP), has marked the topping out of its landmark 451-home Build to Rent (BTR) development at Sweetfields, Leeds. The milestone represents significant progress in delivering high-quality, professionally managed rental homes to the South Bank Regeneration area to meet growing demand in the city. Constructed by main contractor Winvic Construction Ltd, the scheme is set to deliver a collection of studios, one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments designed specifically for renters, offering residents high levels of amenity, energy efficiency, and professional management synonymous with the PLATFORM_ brand. This first phase is a part of the larger Sweetfields neighbourhood which will include the reinstatement of The Commercial Inn, the launch of a new Asda Express, and a new central square amongst extensive landscaping. “The topping out of our first building at Sweetfields marks a major step forward in our ambition to deliver high-quality, sustainable rental homes alongside thoughtful amenities like a convenience store, a pub and new fully landscaped public spaces to create a new neighbourhood” said Jean–MarcVandevivere, Chief Executive at PLATFORM_. “We’re proud to be working alongside our partners at HGP and Winvic to bring this transformative scheme to life and support the wider regeneration of South Bank in Leeds.” “HGP is committed to supporting the delivery of quality new homes with long term equity investment, to address the continuing shortage of supply,” said Colin Bennett, Investment Director at Housing Growth Partnership. “Sweetfields is a fantastic example of Build to Rent investment creating new housing choice and regenerating urban areas.” “Reaching this stage is a testament to the skill, dedication and collaboration of the entire project team,” said Mark Jones, Managing Director for Multi-Room at Winvic. “Sweetfields showcases the best of Build to Rent design and delivery, combining quality construction, modern living standards, and community-focused design. We are proud to be delivering this landmark development bringing much-needed homes to residents in Leeds while creating benefits for the local community.” A New Chapter for Leeds’ Rental Market Once complete, Sweetfields will deliver over 1,350 contemporary apartments across four buildings, complemented by landscaped public areas, on-site amenities, and sustainable design features. The development has been designed to meet the evolving needs of modern renters, offering energy-efficient homes managed under a single professional landlord model, enhancing the quality, reliability, and experience of renting in Leeds. The scheme contributes directly to the city’s housing growth ambitions, supporting regeneration and providing much-needed homes in a well-connected location close to transport links, employment hubs, and local amenities. The apartments will achieve an EPC B rating or higher and incorporate renewable energy sources, energy-efficient heating and lighting, and smart in-home technologies. The development’s sustainable and energy-conscious design combines these features to create a low-carbon community that supports Leeds’ ambition to reach net zero carbon by 2038. Key sustainability measures include air source heat pumps, sustainable urban drainage systems, green roofs, and solar panels throughout the scheme. Residents will also benefit from multiple electric vehicle car charging points. Winvic has engaged the local community through careers fairs, site visits – including a tour for the local Cubs – and work experience placements with schools and universities. Opportunities have been created for over 100 local workers, four apprentices, and three placement students. In addition, Winvic is piloting the Standing Tall programme which provides employment opportunities to people who are homeless, supporting them into employment. The project has supported charities such as Yorkshire Children’s Charity, Leeds Mencap and Zarach. Environmental and wellbeing initiatives have also been delivered including Occupational Health Days and tree planting volunteering with Leeds Council. During the ceremony, guests toured the site and viewed the first completed structures, which showcase the quality and scale of the Build to Rent product being delivered. Looking Ahead With Phase 1 now structurally complete, the project moves into internal fit-out and façade works ahead of practical completion in early 2027. PLATFORM_, HGP, and Winvic will continue to collaborate closely to ensure the scheme delivers on its commitment to quality, sustainability, and community impact. Following the fantastic progress made on the first phase, PLATFORM_ will shortly be submitting Reserved Matters planning applications for Phase 2 of Sweetfields. Phase 2 will deliver a further 540 new Build to Rent homes split across two buildings varying in height from 8 to 23 storeys. The buildings will include high-quality resident amenities including a gym, work from home and lounge spaces within the top level of both buildings benefiting from sweeping views of the Leeds City Centre skyline. PLATFORM_ hopes to secure planning permission from Leeds City Council early next year with works scheduled to set to start on-site in early 2027. Sweetfields is set to become one of Leeds’ most significant Build to Rent communities, setting new standards for resident experience and contributing to the city’s growing supply of professionally managed rental housing. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
