Building underway for new eco-friendly Aire Loft apartments in Citu Climate Innovation District by River Aire in Leeds city centre

The new 'Aire Loft' apartments are part of the Climate Innovation District, which is located on the banks of the River Aire.

Leeds-based developers Citu are creating 108 mainly one and two-bedroom apartments, with a handful of bespoke penthouses.

Each apartment will feature concrete floors, exposed pipework, a Juliet balcony and have south-facing windows to maximise natural light.

As in the other homes in the district, each home will have a Mechanical Ventilation Heat Recovery System to keep heat locked in, which means heating costs are up to ten times lower than an average UK home.

The apartment buildings have been designed around open, shared spaces, including a large central green, designed to bring residents together.

Jonathan Wilson, development director at Citu said: “I’m delighted that work is now underway on Aire Lofts.

"This an exciting and pivotal moment for the district which will see a new and exciting chapter begin.

"We are proud of the boundaries we have pushed without compromising on the design or performance, ensuring these are perfect homes for the future.”

He added: “There is already a tight-knit and friendly community that will continue to grow as their new neighbours arrive at Aire Lofts who will share the same commitment to living a healthier and more sustainable lifestyle.”

Jonathan Morgan, city centre specialist at Linley & Simpson with Morgans, agents for the scheme said: “Aire Lofts offer unusual living spaces for all sorts of aspirational home-makers, from first-time buyers to couples and young families who want to enjoy all that city living has to offer along with benefits of the latest sustainable technologies.

The established and high-quality outdoor spaces and access to the riverside will be a huge support for residents’ personal and mental well-being which are increasingly relevant in our busy world.”

The first homes at Aire Lofts are available to reserve now and are expected to be occupied from winter 2021 onwards.

A total of 20 per cent of the apartments have already been reserved within hours of being released to market.

Prices start at £150,000, rising to £317,000 for the largest two-storey ground floor duplex.