Plans for finished New England Street development in Brighton

The Longley Industrial Estate development will see hundreds of homes rise from the rubble currently visible between New England Street and Elder Place, near Brighton Station.

The project, headed by insurance and asset management company Legal and General, became Brighton's first Build To Rent (BTR) scheme when it was approved in March 2019.

Pictures show the staggering transformation planned as part of the Longley Industrial Development in Brighton

As the name suggests, BTR schemes are new build developments designed specifically for renting.

They usually include benefits for those living there such as longer tenancies, on-site managers and purpose-built communal spaces.

• READ MORE: Pictures show how one of Brighton's biggest ongoing developments will look when it is complete

A Legal and General spokesman said: "Committed to improving standards across the rental market, Legal and General is delivering high-quality, well-managed and specifically designed accommodation in urban locations.

"As Brighton continues to attract a talented and diverse labour pool and growing student population, this new

scheme will play an important role in supporting the city’s increasing housing demands.

Pictures show the staggering transformation planned as part of the Longley Industrial Development in Brighton

"Once complete, it will provide over 200 homes for elective renters in a central location."

Work on the site began in November last year. Developers hope to welcome the first new residents to the development in mid-2023.

The scheme originally planned to deliver 200 homes, but this has now been raised to 209. There is also 3,270 sq ft of commercial space factored into the development, which can either be filled by a single company or used as "incubator space to support start-ups and small and medium enterprises (SMEs)".

Pictures show the staggering transformation planned as part of the Longley Industrial Development in Brighton

Dan Batterton, head of Build To Rent at Legal and General Investment Management (LGIM) Real Assets, said: "Brighton is an ever-growing city where people want to live and work.

"As a major employer in the area, we are delighted to have received permission to begin developing this scheme, transforming a rare warehouse brownfield site into a vibrant new place whilst helping to tackle Brighton’s shortage of housing.

"The UK needs urban centres that are fit for purpose and can support a creative and sustainable community like Brighton.

Pictures show the staggering transformation planned as part of the Longley Industrial Development in Brighton

"We are pleased to be bringing the BTR concept to the city, demonstrating that renting can be an aspirational choice and supporting the workforce with the quality homes they deserve."

As part of the scheme, a £746,000 contribution is being made "towards the enhancement of the public

realm" along Elder Place.