Native Residential launches the first phase of apartments at The Junction Build to Rent development in Leeds on behalf of City Developments Limited (CDL). Next to Wellington Place, The Junction development is transforming the historic Monkbridge steelworks and Grade II listed Gritstone railway viaduct, located within the western boundary of Leeds City Centre.
The first phase of the scheme comprises 307 Build to Rent apartments ready for occupation in January 2023. Once complete, The Junction will deliver a total of 665 apartments. The Junction will also offer a thoughtfully designed and market-leading living experience with 24/7 concierge, co-working, private dining rooms, outdoor event space, pocket parks, gardens and Leeds’ first 5-a-side sports pitch within a Build to Rent development.
“This is an exciting milestone in the redevelopment of this once-forgotten landmark in Leeds. We’re looking forward to welcoming our first residents to The Junction early in the new year and are delighted to be delivering this exceptional Build to Rent scheme in Leeds.”
Neil McGinty, Development Director, City Developments Limited
The new scheme will provide 1.6 acres of public realm across the newly landscaped viaduct – on and around the historic viaduct. The public realm will deliver a wide range of events, community initiatives and arts programmes to encourage strong public engagement. A newly constructed staircase and lift connects Wellington Place to the Railway Viaduct – enhancing connectivity on foot between The Junction development and Leeds City Centre.
The development will also include 20,913 sq ft of commercial space across 12 units, which will be located along the canal frontage and within the asset’s magnificent heritage arches. Native Residential created the commercial leasing strategy to be implemented in collaboration with Thom Heatherington and Sixteen Real Estate. The strategy is to attract a diverse selection of market-leading independent operators, enhancing the living experience of residents and encouraging footfall to The Junction’s public realm.
Native Residential is collaborating with local, independent businesses through its pioneering Neighbourhood Hero programme. The Domino Club, Crafthouse, 92 Degrees Coffee, The Plant Point, Chipp Coffee Co. are the first Neighbourhood Heroes to be announced.
“Over the last year, we’ve worked closely with the CDL team to mobilise our largest Build to Rent asset to date. Native deployed an experienced mobilisation team to deliver expertise across Brand, Placemaking, Digital Marketing, Compliance, Systems, Training & Commercial Strategies to ensure the successful launch of this landmark asset. We’re delighted to conclude the successful onboarding of the onsite team now fully trained and ready to launch the asset in the new year.”
Rajiv Mehta, Director of Operations (UK), Native Residential
Native Residential will operate the entire asset and has appointed Johnathan Lloyd as Community Manager for The Junction, from Legal and General’s Mustard Wharf. He will lead an onsite team of 22 people – most have already been recruited.
“The Junction will set a new benchmark for Build to Rent in Leeds with respect to its location, scale, range of amenity and quality of commercial estate and public realm. We’ve recruited a highly capable team who will be responsible for providing exceptional levels of customer service to our residents, and ensuring a rapid lease up of this flagship neighbourhood. We can’t wait to open our doors to our residents.”
Johnathan Lloyd, Community Manager at The Junction
