As the world welcomed the New Year, a pandemic was received in response. Efforts to curb the spread of the novel virus brought about the enforcement of various health and environmental measures. Such as the use of masks, social distancing, lockdown & restriction of movements. Putting all economic, social activities and the world at a standstill.
Unfortunately, the effects of the pandemic on the economy have been significant. Most businesses, companies and organisations have been unable to carry out their plans set for 2020. Confronted with this worldwide challenge, organisations have had to adapt to survive. The use of technology has been instrumental to the gradual rise of economic activities as the year draws to a close.
Despite the obvious drawbacks, the following companies have adapted to this “new normal/reality”. Successfully managing to open their doors and launch new Build to Rent developments here in the UK.
The following are the Build to Rent developments that opened and thrived during lockdown.
Vertus – 10 George Street
Vertus is an arm of the Canary Wharf Group that manages and operates the BTR schemes on behalf of the Group. Currently, Vertus has one Build to Rent development completed. As well as two others in Canary Wharf, both at different stages of construction. Vertus operations are dedicated to providing residents with the best service and rental experience.
At the close of 2019, Vertus completed it’s BTR ‘10 George Street‘. A 37-storey tower located near Canary Wharf station in Wood Wharf, London E14. 10 George Street consists of 327 residential units. Including amenities such as; private dining, gym, bar & a lounge that leads to a large south-facing terrace.
10 George Street officially opened to residents on the 14th February 2020 – a month shy of the UK’s first lockdown. Units within the development are a mix of one, two, three bedrooms and studio apartments types. All of which are tastefully furnished by Camerich to suit modern standards. Each apartment layout is created to accentuate natural light and open-plan living, as each unit has its balcony.
“One of the best places to stay in London if not the best. The concierge team and the rest of the Vertus staff are extremely nice and friendly. The place is secure. The facilities are excellent and well designed. The apartment itself is spacious with plenty of storage and the appliances are top quality. It’s only 5 minutes away from Canary Wharf station which is perfect. If you want someone who works miracles, ask for Pierre!”
Ahmed (Private Tenant) Oct 2020 – HomeViews
A major advantage of 10 George Street is its proximity to the tube. However, Canary Wharf is also accessible by foot. This makes it attractive for people WFH, working in Canary Wharf and commuters alike.
Legal & General – Blackhorse Mills
In 2017, L&G embarked on the development of one of the largest UK BTR schemes. Partnering with Galliford Try, in a £120 million contract for Blackhorse Mills. The scheme opened it’s doors to residents early 2020, narrowly avoiding the restriction of movement as a result of lockdown.
Blackhorse Mills is a development made up of five buildings in Walthamstow. Consisting of 479 units which are a mix of one, two, three-bedroom and studio apartments. Along with provision for amenities like a gym, pool, games room, lounge, private dining, 24h concierge and more.
Blackhorse Mills has been recognised as the first Build to Rent scheme to be certified by BRE Global with the Home Quality Mark. An assurance it has been verified to meet the sustainability and quality standards.
Don’t just take our word for it, here’s one of the reviews of Blackhorse Mills by residents on Homeviews.
“The facilities in Blackhorse Mills are incredible! You could spend a whole weekend at home and not run out of things to do- swimming, tennis, gym, shuffleboard, pool, table tennis, cook for friends in the dining room or just chill on the rooftop overlooking the sunset on the Wetlands. The building management is also outstanding…The team have dealt with the constraints of COVID really well and always keep all residents up to date with any changes…”
Natalie (Private Tenant) Aug 2020 – HomeViews
Realstar – UNCLE Wembley
Despite uncertainties, Realstar successfully completed the development of their BTR scheme in Wembley. Realstar’s Build to Rent is operated under the UNCLE brand, and was opened to residents in June 2020. Just as lockdown restrictions began to ease.
The development is located in Park Lane, Wembley. It comprises of two buildings of 21 storeys and 26 storeys, providing a total of 239 Build to Rent units. Amenities include gym, basketball court, landscaped roof garden, parcel storage rooms and barbeque area, studio space and more.
“Since moving to Wembley, they have been ace. There are a few parts of the building that aren’t ready just yet but they really do go above and beyond to make everything the best it can be. They’re so friendly, caring and really do always do everything they can to help. The building is beautiful and the apartments are flawless! Seriously, keep up the work guys, you’re really appreciated! The whole team at Wembley is exceptional!”
Bailey Roberts Jun 2020 – Trustpilot
Conclusion
Despite adversity and lockdown constraints, these companies embody the spirit of resilience and continual growth being shown throughout the entire UK Build to Rent sector. These new BTR schemes have successfully launched during a time of uncertainty. But, one thing we are certain of, is that, we can’t wait to have a look around when it’s safe to do so!
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