Construction firm Legendre UK launches property development branch

Legendre UK expands its operations, appointing Nicolas Swiderski as Head of Property Development

Construction firm Legendre UK today announces a strategic expansion into the property development sector and appoints Nicolas Swiderski as Head of the Property Development. Legendre UK is the British subsidiary of leading international real estate development and construction business Groupe Legendre.

The decision of expanding into property development stems from a long-standing desire to replicate the successful model employed by parent company Groupe Legendre, which operates as both a contractor and developer. The move is a natural progression for Legendre UK as the company has already invested funding into some of its projects in the UK, including Sheepcote Road, an affordable housing site in Harrow for Pocket Living, and a residential scheme for Matching Green in Dockley Road, Bermondsey, which includes private and shared ownership homes, as well as social housing.

Legendre UK is planning to build out all their development projects themselves, leveraging the advantage of their developer role to influence the decision-making process from the project’s inception, including partnering with like-minded clients who prioritise ESG and sustainability. A particular focus will be placed on expanding the company’s portfolio of retrofit projects.

The Legendre UK development branch will focus on projects encompassing London and other core UK cities, including Brighton, Bristol, and Birmingham, with the initial focus being residential, build-to-rent, co-living, and student accommodation within the Greater London area. These sectors offer resilient prospects even in times of uncertainty and align with the growing demand for affordable housing solutions across the country.

With over 18 years of experience in the property development field, Swiderski will spearhead the new property development division and its recruitment, playing a pivotal role in sourcing land, generating opportunities, and shaping Legendre UK’s foray into the market.

Swiderski brings a wealth of expertise to the role. He previously worked as Development and Project Manager at Linkcity (part of the Bouygues Group) in Paris; in 2011 he moved to London where he worked for Linkcity UK, quickly progressing to leadership positions. In 2017, Swiderski relocated to Sydney to set up Linkcity’s branch in Australia. As part of his role, Swiderski was responsible for managing development opportunities both in the public and private sector and growing the business presence across New South Wales.

Nicolas Swiderski, Head of Property Development, Legendre UK, said: “I am delighted to have joined Legendre UK and I am very much looking forward to starting this exciting new venture with them. In the midst of market uncertainty, seizing opportunities becomes vital. The current landscape  offers us a strategic moment to embrace risk. As developers navigate uncertainty, we see a chance to step in, leveraging our resilience to capitalise on opportunities as well as our excellent construction knowledge, track record, and financial expertise.

“We’re aware of the challenges ahead, including inflationary pressures and high interest rates, and are keen to embrace complexity. We steer clear of cookie-cutter approaches in favour of bespoke solutions – an approach that demands creativity, agility, and collaboration, pushing us to explore the unknown and shape a resilient future.”

Thomas Vandecasteele, Managing Director, said: “Given that Legendre UK is now an established and capable contractor in the UK market, it makes complete sense to further our expansion through funding more client schemes or by initiating our own projects.

“I am very proud that a talent like Nicolas has decided to join us and embrace this challenge. His expertise in the UK market, student accommodation and PRS aligns well with the challenges faced by the industry, including project viability, high financing costs, increasing construction costs.

“Nicolas’ recruitment aligns seamlessly with our strategic plan, which has demonstrated its relevance not only in France, but also in Portugal, Jersey, and Switzerland.”