How Build to Rent is Powering Up Local Economies
- Go back
- 28th Feb 25
One of the unexpected benefits of Build to Rent is its ability to revitalise areas, bringing much-needed economic and social development to places that may have previously struggled to attract investment. By transforming underutilised spaces into thriving residential communities, Build to Rent helps to regenerate local neighbourhoods, encouraging new businesses, infrastructure improvements, and enhanced public services.
Driving Local Economies
One of the key contributions of Build to Rent developments is their ability to boost local economies. The construction phase alone generates thousands of jobs across multiple disciplines, from planning and architecture to trades such as plumbing, electrical work, and project management. Once operational, Build to Rent schemes provide ongoing employment opportunities in property management, maintenance, and customer service, supporting a range of industries in the local area.
With the latest Q4 2024 Build to Rent report from Savills, data shows that Build to Rent is making considerable impact in regional economic development, creating jobs, stimulating investment, and creating vibrant communities. Furthermore, according to the British Property Federation (BPF), the number of Build to Rent homes granted planning consent has risen by 35% over the past 12 months, a clear indication of the sector’s rapid growth and increasing importance in the UK housing market.
Growth in the West Midlands
The latest data from Savills’ Q4 2024 Build to Rent report highlights the significant expansion of the Build to Rent market outside of the Capital. The West Midlands recorded the highest number of new consents in 2024, with Birmingham leading the charge. Out of 4,038 new Build to Rent homes granted planning consent across the region, Birmingham accounted for almost 3,700 units, reinforcing its position as a key growth area.
Over the past two years, Birmingham has seen nearly 12,000 Build to Rent homes either completed or under construction, demonstrating the increasing demand for high-quality rental accommodation. This expansion is not only improving housing supply but also injecting investment into local businesses, from retail and leisure to hospitality and public services.
Creating Thriving Communities
Beyond the economic boost, Build to Rent plays an important role in creating vibrant, well-connected communities. Build to Rent developments often include amenities such as co-working spaces, gyms, communal lounges, and green spaces, creating social interaction and enhancing residents’ quality of life. With more and more people moving into the area, regeneration is at the forefront creating increased investment into transport links, and public services, further attracting businesses and talent to the area strengthening regional economic resilience.
A Bright Future for the Regions
“Build to Rent is not just about providing homes, it is about creating sustainable, long-term growth in towns and cities nationwide,” says Anne Marie Brown, Founder of Love to Rent. “With planning consents increasing and demand for high-quality rental accommodation on the rise, Build to Rent is set to remain a driving force in regional development for years to come.”
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From the regions to the Capital and suburbs, Love to Rent is the go-to platform for discovering high-quality, professionally managed Build to Rent homes. Whether you're looking for a vibrant city lifestyle or a thriving regional community, Build to Rent offers a new way to live with flexibility, security, and exceptional amenities.
Image used- APO at The Holloway- Birmingham.
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