Build-to-rent (BTR) provider PLATFORM_ has unveiled further details about its first mixed-use development in the UK.
The 1.3m sq ft Sweetfields development on Leeds’ South Bank will comprise more than 1,350 new homes and 160,000 sq ft of Grade A office and commercial space set around a new public square.
PLATFORM_ and investment partner Housing Growth Partnership broke ground on phase one of the neighbourhood in 2024, commencing the delivery of 451 new rental homes, a grocery store, public square and the reinstatement of the historic Commercial pub, once owned by Leeds United icon Peter Lorimer.
Alongside the first phase of residential development, which is due to complete at the start of 2027, two new office buildings offering 90,000 sq ft and 45,000 sq ft are being delivered.
Jean-Marc Vandevivere, CEO of PLATFORM_, said: “Sweetfields is an area that is steeped in local history, and we’re delighted to pick up its story and create a new chapter by bringing homes, jobs and businesses back to a site that has been vacant since 2008. Our investment in acquiring the land, securing planning, designing and now building out the site reflects our commitment to creating a vibrant new neighbourhood to support delivery of Leeds City Council’s economic, investment, regeneration and housing goals.
“The Sweetfields name is the first step in bringing the site to life and attracting a wide range of residents as well as retail, leisure and workspace occupiers, creating a neighbourhood that people from across Leeds and beyond can enjoy the benefits of.”
Eamon Fox, partner and head of development at the Leeds office of Knight Frank, which is marketing the scheme’s commercial space, added: “This is a very timely and welcome mixed-use development in an historic area of Leeds, which is enjoying significant regeneration. The continued inward investment in the city from major occupiers has put pressure on the housing and workspace supply and there’s no doubt that Sweetfields will ease this problem.”
