The first tenants have been welcomed to their new purpose-built rental homes in Salford, Greater Manchester.

Phase one was recently completed on the project, which stands as the largest purpose-built rental housing scheme outside London.

Managed by residential landlord Grainger, the site includes 614 build-to-rent homes along with a 24-hour gym, communal living rooms, co-working space and superfast WiFi.

More than half of the Clippers Quay flats were secured before the development was completed.

-- Advertisement --

Grainger used innovative virtual reality technology to show tenants previews of the homes.

Grainger chief executive Helen Gordon said: "We are building an entirely new product that finally offers people renting a quality service from a reputable landlord at a price they can afford. Renters are responding accordingly.

"With a growing need for agile working and labour mobility, people need more flexibility when it comes to housing and deserve far better standards than the rental market currently provides.

"This culture of 'home ownership at all costs' no longer resonates for many people, and they're less inclined to take on high debt or mortgage payments, whilst still having to compromise on important elements such as location. A more professional rental market is good for consumers, the economy and for politicians keen to get more homes built, faster."

It is estimated the Clippers Quay development was built four times faster than it would have been if for sale.

(CM/MH)