Watkin Jones has announced the practical completion of the first phase of its 551-bed BTR scheme in Sherlock Quarter, Birmingham.
The first phase, consisting of 125 units, was delivered by Watkin Jones on behalf of Get Living and is part of a broader six-building development set to be completed later this year.
Sherlock Quarter (formerly known as Maker’s Yard) is built on a former brownfield site and provides a mix of high-quality one, two and three-bedroom apartments for rent with 27 affordable homes in this phase. This first phase is spread over two eight-storey buildings. Amenities include a gym, co-working space, social lounges, a landscaped podium and a double-height sky lounge.
The development is located just 500 metres from the Bull Ring shopping centre, right in the heart of Birmingham’s city centre. Future residents will have convenient access to the city’s extensive range of shops, restaurants, bars and public transport via Birmingham New Street Station.
Managed by Get Living, this development covers a 2.47-acre site and will include a new pedestrianised public square that connects the city centre with the wider Rea Valley Urban Quarter.
The project incorporates sustainable design features including, Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems (SuDS). The scheme also includes charging points for electric cars and ample bicycle storage for residents, supporting sustainable local transport. Additionally, the development is set to achieve a BREEAM “Very Good” rating and Level 3 HQM rating, in addition to WiredScore Gold.
Richard Harris, managing director – group delivery for Watkin Jones, said: “We are pleased to announce the practical completion and handover of the first phase of Sherlock Quarter, a key component of a larger Build-to-Rent (BTR) development, to our client, Get Living.”
“This new development helps to address the housing shortage in Birmingham, and in partnership with Get Living, we have successfully delivered the first sustainable rental homes in Sherlock Quarter, providing residents with long-term value.”
Rick De Blaby, CEO of Get Living, added: “It’s brilliant to see the progress made by Watkin Jones at Sherlock Quarter. This milestone marks the beginning of a handover process which will see us deliver 551 high-quality new rental homes for Birmingham, 47 of which will be affordable, alongside new shops and public realm for all to enjoy.”
“Schemes such as this not only directly address the housing shortage being felt across the country, but also support growth and prosperity across one of the UK’s greatest cities. We are looking forward to welcoming our first residents later this year as we become long-term stakeholders, making a positive contribution to this vibrant, fast-paced city.”
