Scotland’s largest BTR development reaches practical completion

06 Dec Scotland’s largest BTR development reaches practical completion

PLATFORM_’s BTR development, constructed by GRAHAM, provides 498 much-needed homes in the city centre of Glasgow

Leading build-to-rent (BTR) developer and operator, PLATFORM_, has completed its new landmark development on Glasgow’s River Clyde waterfront. The building was constructed by GRAHAM and funded by PLATFORM_’s joint venture partnership with Northwood Investors LLC.

PLATFORM_ Glasgow is the largest BTR scheme in Scotland and is strategically located between the International Financial Services District and Finnieston, offering 498 much-needed new homes for Glasgow city centre. Standing as one of the city’s tallest buildings at 20 storeys (c.60m), the BTR neighbourhood is set across four blocks with a selection of studio, one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments available.

The development brings tech-enabled, design conscious city living to renters in Glasgow to create a unique neighbourhood for residents to live, work and socialise. PLATFORM_ features extensive amenities including a state-of-the-art gym, landscaped courtyard, two roof terraces, private dining room, cinema room and co- working facilities all included in monthly rental rates. Residents can manage their homes conveniently using smart technology like the PLATFORM_ Portal app, keyless entry, and remote utility monitoring, all underpinned by pre-installed superfast broadband.

The development has attracted significant interest from a range of demographics given the selection of apartments available, coupled with the continued demand for high-quality rental accommodation in the city.

Built with sustainability in mind, the scheme will achieve the Silver Active Energy standard by incorporating rooftop photovoltaics and the use of air source heat pumps in place of traditional heating systems in design. These initiatives enable 100 per cent of apartments to achieve an EPC B rating.

The development also features two on-site commercial units at ground level which will provide convenience retail options and additional amenities to residents, with electrical vehicle charging points and bike storage also available in communal spaces.

Importantly, PLATFORM_ aligns with Glasgow City Council’s City Centre Living Strategy that aims to double the city centre population to 40,000 by 2035. Its location along the Broomielaw will aid wider regeneration efforts within this area, breathing life back into the waterfront and once again making it a destination of choice for residents and visitors.

Jean-Marc Vandevivere, CEO at PLATFORM_, said: “Our Glasgow development is PLATFORM_’s 8th to complete and our first in Scotland. We’re really excited to see it become a memorable part of Glasgow’s skyline.

“Importantly, we’re helping to accelerate the urban regeneration of this area that is quickly attracting significant investment as collectively we recognise the wealth of opportunities this part of the city possesses. PLATFORM_ will deliver a ready-made neighbourhood that prioritises resident experience and wellbeing.”

James Seago, Vice President at Northwood Investors, said: “We’re delighted to complete our third development in our partnership with PLATFORM_ following the completion of new residential neighbourhoods in Cardiff and Sheffield within the last 12 months. This brings the completed JV portfolio to 1,039 apartments with strong prospects given the high quality of our buildings, PLATFORM_’s unrelenting focus on design, service and resident experience and low levels of supply in these locations. This is evidenced by the 100% occupancy being maintained at the Cardiff development.”

Gary Holmes, Regional Managing Director for GRAHAM’s Building division said: “GRAHAM is proud to reach practical completion of what is set to become one of the city’s most desirable neighbourhoods. Providing high-quality apartments with a full range of lifestyle and amenity facilities which today’s rental market expects, this iconic development will create a thriving community along the River Clyde and help support regeneration efforts in a historic part of the city.

“We look forward to continuing our relationship with PLATFORM_ as we progress with the build of a sister BTR neighbourhood in Bonnington, Edinburgh.”