Southampton: £60m regeneration project reaches completion

One of the most transformational regeneration projects in Southampton’s recent history has come to a successful completion, breathing new life into a previously run-down part of the city centre. 

National Regional Property Group, funder PATRIZIA and operator Atlas Residential have completed their redevelopment of the city’s old fruit and vegetable market. 

The £60m high-quality transformation scheme – one of Southampton City Council’s VIP projects – has seen a dilapidated set of warehouses transformed into a sleek residential development – with associated commercial space – called Bow Square.

The development, on the corner of Queensway and Bernard Street, is comprised of three blocks in an L shape, with colourful balconies creating a recognisable identity. It features a range of one and two-bedroom apartments exclusively for renters.

It has taken almost exactly three years from the first spade hitting the ground to the last of the 279 homes being handed over – a fast-paced project considering the scale.

Shaun Adams, chief executive of National Regional Property Group, which led the project, said: “We are absolutely thrilled to see Bow Square completed well on-schedule and providing much-needed homes for the increasing number of people wanting to live, work and socialise in the city centre. The project is proof that developers in the private sector are able to move quickly and efficiently to deliver high-quality housing.”

With the construction side of the development now complete, owner PATRIZIA and its operating partner Atlas Residential are setting about creating a strong sense of community for residents at the development. Already the companies have created a sense of real neighbourhood feel for residents who have been moving in over the last year. Facilities such as a communal lounge, kitchen and gym have created the chance for people to get together while initiatives such as dog walking groups and fitness classes have united residents with common interests.

Eric Linden, director at PATRIZIA, said: “We are delighted to take delivery of the development, with the construction now entirely complete. We worked very closely with National Regional Property Group over the last three years to develop the design and quality of the project that has allowed us to create a real community, where neighbours get to know one another and have shared space to socialise. That element was really important to us and feedback from residents is that we’ve created a living environment that simply isn’t seen anywhere else locally.”

PMC Construction has been the lead building contractor on Bow Square, battling some challenging circumstances including the ‘Beast from the East’ to get the project completed on time. 

Steve Cripps from the company said: “PMC Construction are proud to deliver another large project on time and within budget. The project has provided local jobs for local people and had a successful trainee programme which has seen multiple trainees obtain full-time employment in the construction industry.”

Denise Edghill, director, growth at Southampton City Council said: “I am delighted to see the completion of Bow Square, Southampton’s first build to rent residential accommodation in the city centre and one of the Master Plan VIP projects. It’s particularly pleasing to see the public art project, which has brought to life the history of the site and has re-imagined the old medieval town wall.”

Leader of Southampton City Council, councillor Christopher Hammond said: “With the high-quality accommodation on offer and the communal facilities such as the gym, a shared garden area and the building of a strong community within the apartment building, it’s obvious why there’s been such a high level of interest in Bow Square. 

“Bow Square not only offers fantastic accommodation but is also a lifestyle choice, and we’re delighted to welcome the new residents to Southampton. The provision of high-quality rented apartments, which are owned by one company, also provides a sense of security for occupiers. The vibrant city centre location also ensures all additional amenities are on their doorsteps.”