National developer McLaren Living has submitted plans for Water Lane, a new Build to Rent residential development in the South Bank Regeneration area, a rapidly emerging residential and mixed-use quarter located in Leeds city centre. McLaren Living have appointed Allsop to source an investment partner, with development anticipated to commence in summer 2022.
Designed by Carey Jones Chapman Tolcher (CJCT), the Build to Rent scheme will transform the vacant former car park site into a vibrant, residential led neighbourhood. Water Lane will deliver 375 new homes comprising a mix of apartments.
Water Lane is anchored on high-quality public realm, landscaping and a mix of engaging communal and amenity space, focused on the resident experience – creating a sense of community and a sustainable thriving new quarter of the city. Amenities include residents’ lounges, shared workspaces, gym and events areas – with roof gardens on the 1st, 9th, and 14th floors. At ground level of Water Lane, there will be gardens with a rich biodiverse mix of plants.
Water Lane will also have a vibrant concierge area providing a welcoming space to sit, relax and meet, which also connects to the residents’ gym. The first-floor flexible amenity space connects directly to extensively landscaped communal space, along with co-working space, private dining area, and a spinning/yoga studio, creating an integral part of residents’ experience and communal life.
The development site also has excellent sustainable links into the city centre, local amenities, and great connections to local and national transport hubs. Water Lane proposals also include 226 resident cycle spaces, provision for 38 visitor bikes and 51 car parking spaces.
Water Lane and the wider area have a rich industrial heritage, the high-quality residential architecture, public realm and landscaping will open up the historic Midland Mills, the adjacent Grade II listed building, dramatically improving the setting of this heritage asset with the potential to connect directly to the neighbouring development.
“We’re extremely excited to be working with Leeds City Council to deliver this landmark development to bring forward high quality yet attainable new homes in this highly accessible location.
“We are committed to Leeds, it is a well-connected city, with fantastic retail, leisure amenity and a growing reputation as an attractive headquarters location, resulting in huge potential for investment and growth. We’re currently bringing forward two Build to Rent schemes in the city, with our well-located rented accommodation expected to receive strong resident demand, due to the continued popularity of the city.
“Water Lane is an excellent example of the high-quality residential schemes we are known for delivering, focused on the resident experience, while ensuring we bring forward a sustainable and thriving new neighbourhood.”
Matthew Biddle, Managing Director, McLaren Living
McLaren Living was established to specialise in residential development with a particular focus on the Build to Rent market. Recently, McLaren established a full-time presence in the North of England by taking office space in Leeds, delivering developments worth around £550m, including Wellington Street – a mix of Build to Rent and commercial development and Water Lane, with McLaren Living delivering the Build to Rent element.
