Two Northern developers have come together to launch a joint venture that aims to create hundreds of family homes using modern construction methods.
Build to rent developer-operator Placefirst, which is based in Salford, has partnered with Doncaster housebuilder Strata to form a 50:50 joint venture with plans to deliver more than 500 single-family homes by 2028. The new company will start with a development to create 128 homes at Strata’s ‘Desire’ development near Thorpe Park, Leeds.
The homes will be built using Modern Methods of Construction (MMC), enabling them to be delivered significantly faster and more sustainably than traditional building approaches. That approach will include the use of timber to improve insulation and reduce energy costs for residents.
The companies’ framework agreement has already identified a further 221 homes for delivery across the UK.
Anna Hwang, chief investment officer of Placefirst, said: “Our ambition to deliver more quality homes across the UK comes down to a simple belief: renters deserve better. For too long, poor-quality housing with unstable tenancies has been the norm in the UK’s rental market. We know the only way to solve this problem is deliver more expertly-built, professionally-operated rental homes – whether through building them ourselves or through collaborative partnerships.
“This partnership with Strata is one such example and represents an important step forward in our mission. Combining our expertise, we can deliver sustainable homes at scale faster than ever before. Through our shared commitment to creating places where residents don’t just live but thrive, we will deliver a homeowner-quality living experience for our renters.”
Gemma Smith, chief executive officer at Strata, said: “This partnership with Placefirst is a natural progression for Strata as we continue evolving to become an innovative multi tenure home builder. We believe everyone should have the opportunity to live in a home that is beautifully designed, build to high quality and energy efficient, whether buying or renting.
“We have designed a collection of homes for the single-family rental market, retaining the signature Strata style inside and out. We have worked with Placefirst to carefully consider the internal specification and ensure the homes offer everything a resident will be hoping for.
“We see it as our role to create communities that will in turn improve the lives of generations to come. By joining forces, we can expand this vision and not only deliver more high-quality homes in areas of need, but use our combined experience to ensure our developments retain a strong sense of community and meet the needs of residents today and in the future.”
KPMG Corporate Finance advised Strata on the joint venture.
Original artice – https://business-live.co.uk/all-about/yorkshire-humber
