DEVELOPER and operator PLATFORM_ has taken handover of the first phase of its flagship build-to-rent (BTR) development in Bonnington, Edinburgh.
Forward-funded by Heimstaden Bostad, and delivered by contractor GRAHAM, on completion the project will bring 464 homes to the city, including 25% intermediate market rent provision.
The launch is a landmark for Edinburgh as the only new BTR to launch in the city this year, and for PLATFORM_, who already operate the largest BTR scheme in Scotland, comprising 498 apartments on Anderston Quay in Glasgow.
The first phase has now been completed, with 365 apartments available for rent, along with a range of amenities including a gym, yoga studio, co-working space, lounge, guest rooms, private dining room, screening room, spin room, outdoor landscaped areas, a kids’ soft playroom, and an outdoor play area. A new riverside walk and park have also been created, and the development contains four new commercial units, and a new access road connecting Anderson Place and Bonnington Road Lane.
Sustainability features include electric vehicle charging stations, mechanical heat recovery systems in every home, and solar panels.
Residents will benefit from partnerships with local businesses including Niche Studio, Razzo Pizza Napoletana, and Port of Leith Distillery, offering discounts on services.
Demand for apartments has already been strong, with 80% of the intermediate market rent apartments in the first phase already pre-let. The remaining 99 open market and intermediate market rent apartments are expected to launch before the end of 2024.
Jean-Marc Vandevivere, CEO at PLATFORM_, said, “PLATFORM_’s latest development in Edinburgh will enhance the vibrant Bonnington area with tech-enabled, well-priced housing that is in strong demand across the city. The high level of demand is evident, with all available 1-bed and 2-bed intermediate market rent homes now reserved.
“With close to 1,000 BTR units operational in Glasgow and Edinburgh by the end of the year, we look forward to finally getting clarity on the regulatory front from the Scottish government. This will hopefully allow us to start investing again into new projects and deliver even more much-needed rental housing across Scotland.”
Christian Birrell, MD, head of UK investments, Heimstaden Bostad, added, “We are excited to launch the first Heimstaden Bostad-funded BTR development in Scotland, in partnership with PLATFORM_, and look forward to welcoming new residents to our Friendly Homes in the coming weeks. The development in Bonnington represents a new standard of living for the people of Edinburgh, with sustainability at its core. The introduction of 464 open market and intermediate market rent apartments to the city will add much-needed housing and ensure there are homes for all types of renters.”
Gary Holmes, regional MD for GRAHAM’s Building North region, commented, “GRAHAM is proud to partner with PLATFORM_ and Heimstaden Bostad to help more people find a high-quality home in Bonnington. Through innovative design features and extensive amenities, this project sets a new standard for modern living in Edinburgh.”
