Southampton: Grainger launches its first build-to-rent development

The UK’s largest listed residential landlord, Grainger plc, has launched Gatehouse Apartments its first build-to-rent scheme in Southampton.

Located on the city’s East Street, the 132-home development comprises one and two-bedroom apartments with the first phase of 31 homes ready for occupation. From day one residents of Gatehouse Apartments will be looked after by Grainger’s new dedicated in-house resident services team. Rents start at £950 per month with the larger two-bed apartments having views over the cruise terminal and Riven Itchen.

The high-quality homes are available on a furnished basis and stylish furniture packages will be in place for move-in. For those who prefer to choose their own furniture, there will also be some homes available unfurnished. Residents of the Gatehouse community will benefit from a 24-hour gym, co-working space, residents’ lounge and private dining area as well as an outdoor terrace. Superfast 250mbps wi-fi is included in the rent and available in all homes and communal areas. There are also 140 cycle and 47 parking spaces accessed via a gated entrance. Gatehouse Apartments is a pet-friendly development with dogs, cats and rabbits welcomed.

Southampton is one of the south coast’s most economically vibrant cities and the demand for private rental property is growing. Following extensive research, Southampton is one of 12 cities across the country identified by Grainger as a target for long-term investment.

Commenting on the launch, Grainger chief executive Helen Gordon said: “The launch of our Gatehouse Apartments scheme in the centre of Southampton is an important milestone for Grainger. We identified the city for investment owing to its excellent potential and Gatehouse Apartments is one of Southampton’s first build-to-rent developments.

“We believe the high-quality finish and professionally managed service, delivered by the in-house Grainger team, will attract a range of residents from across the city and beyond.

“With Southampton being confirmed as one of the new Freeports and its bid for City of Culture 2025 under consideration, we see Southampton as a key destination for those looking to rent as a lifestyle choice. We look forward to welcoming our first residents in the next few weeks.”

Lauren Tompkins, Grainger’s Gatehouse Apartments residents service team manager added: “This is a really exciting time for our team at Gatehouse Apartments and we’re working really hard to put the finishing touches to our homes and amenity spaces, ready for residents to enjoy. Initial feedback has been really positive, and we are looking forward to helping residents settle in and make a new home.”

Gatehouse Apartments were constructed by Portsmouth-based developer National Regional Property Group and contractor PMC Construction on their second build to rent scheme in Southampton. At the recent development handover, Shaun Adams National Regional Property Group chief executive officer commented:

“With our continued focus on sustainable city centre development, the delivery of another build-to-rent scheme on the south coast is one more milestone in Southampton’s ongoing redevelopment. Gatehouse Apartments is a landmark building, designed to give residents quality living and community space.”