By Conor de Smith

Contractor Winvic will construct and fit-out a 384-apartment project at the former Merlin Works site overlooking the River Soar in Bath Lane in Leicester.

The plan is for three build-to-rent modern apartment blocks to be completed by September 2020 at a cost of about £51 million.

The scheme by residential landlords Leicester Lettings, will include 256 one-bedroom and 128 two-bedroom apartments within three towers standing at ten, 14 and 16 storeys high.

There will also be a ground floor commercial unit, a two-level car park and a shared outdoor space for residents, which will be created via three separate raised podiums.

Archaeological works were completed two weeks ago and building work will get underway on December 3 with an estimated 42-week build programme.

Andy Bassett, Winvic’s operations manager for the new Bath Lane project, said: “It’s fantastic to announce that we are working with Jamie Lewis of Leicester Lettings Ltd on another city centre, high rise residential project and our relationship is an example of how we attract repeat business.

“We are also particularly looking forward to facilitating work placements for local young people, who can be proud of being a part of their city’s regeneration; we have already been working with Leicester City Council to achieve this and will continue to create partnerships with communities throughout the development.”

Emily-mae Collins, 20, a former resident in Bath Lane, said: “Any regeneration on this street is welcomed and I think it will do great things for this area of the city. With the River Soar just there, it could be such a beautiful place.”

Dan Graves, 19, living at Merlin Heights in Bath Lane, added: “I overlook the site where these flats will be built and think what the council are doing in terms of improving the look of the city is brilliant.”

The homes will be designed by Leicester-based architects RG&P with engineering consultant PRP and QS MDA Consulting also involved.