Managers appointed to launch and run city centre BTR development

Property specialist Centrick has been appointed to launch and manage an exciting new multi-million-pound build-to-rent (BTR) development in Sheffield.

Birmingham-based Centrick will provide its market leading BTR services, through its new VICI platform, on behalf of developer and investor Oblix Living for its Iron Yard development.

Situated in the heart of the city centre, Iron Yard will provide 95 one and two-bedroom apartments, with a residents’ health club, private dining and event space, a co-working hub and residents’ lounge as well as extensive private parking with EV chargers also available. Iron Yard, which achieved practical completion last week, is set to welcome new tenants shortly.

VICI  was officially launched at MIPIM, the world’s largest international real estate event. Centrick – which has been operating in the BTR sector since it first emerged – believes VICI is the only truly end-to-end BTR solution for property developers and funds. It is designed to simplify, support and streamline BTR operations.

Centrick founder James Ackrill said: “It is enormously exciting to see Iron Yard coming to life and we are very pleased to be launching this scheme. Working with Oblix Living has been a pleasure. It is great to see their vision come to fruition and to be able to share in the success of launching a high quality scheme which focuses on the tenant and addresses their needs in so many ways.”

VICI director Neelam Saihjpal said: “Iron Yard is a wonderful boutique scheme and we are looking forward to working alongside Oblix Living to deliver outstanding consulting, pre-launch, branding and of course operational BTR services which we have continued to grow over many years of experience and expertise in this key growth sector. We are going to work hand-in-hand with tenants to create a thriving, sustainable community within this fabulous new development.”

She added: “With our headquarters in the Midlands, over the past two years we have built a network of hubs across the country stretching from Sheffield in the north and down to the south coast. Our northern region alone has grown to over 2,000 homes under management in that time and we are targeting further growth right across the country.”

Oblix Living is a specialist developer, investor and operator of residential rental assets in strategically selected locations across the UK. It develops mid-sized schemes in urban areas where there is demand for well serviced, custom built rental accommodation.

Iron Yard is specially designed to cater to Sheffield’s growing population of young professionals, including the growing medical community with state-of-the-art amenities, a skilled, friendly and welcoming on site team and contemporary apartments and excellent access to all that the city has to offer. It will offer a peaceful haven for those wanting to live a cosmopolitan lifestyle whilst still having a place to relax and unwind.

Rishi Passi, chief executive of Oblix Living, said: “I’m delighted to be launching Iron Yard which will be our first Build to Rent development in Sheffield – and excited for residents to enjoy not just the convenience and opportunity of the city, but the living spaces and exceptional communal spaces within the development.”

James added: “Centrick has extensive experience in the BTR sector and through VICI, our new dedicated division, we will work alongside developers and funds operating in the rapidly expanding build-to-rent sector. Investment in BTR has soared in recent years and it has the potential to grow significantly in cities and towns right across the UK.”