Galliford Try said on Tuesday its building business has won a contract to build one of the most significant build-to-rent developments ever seen in Leeds.

The £105 million scheme is set to transform the south west of Leeds city centre on the former Monk Bridge steelworks site, just off Whitehall Road. 

The 665-home development is being constructed on behalf of Highline Investments and will see the creation of five new blocks varying from 12 to 22 storeys in height.

All the accommodation will be available as a private rental scheme and will include one, two and three-bed apartments.

Bordering on to the Leeds-Liverpool canal, the new scheme makes the most of the existing surroundings, using the Victorian viaduct of the defunct Leeds and Thirsk railway to create a new plaza.

The existing railway arches below will also be renovated to provide space for retail and hospitality businesses.

Galliford Try CEO Bill Hocking said:“We are delighted to be able to start work on such a prestigious development in the heart of Leeds.

“This scheme is a significant investment in the current economic environment and our excellent track record in high-density residential building has led Highline to place their trust in Galliford Try to deliver for their customers.”