The new growth strategy follows the completion of Select Property Group’s Vita Student development at Manchester’s Circle Square.

Wates will use the success of the 748-bed development as a springboard to chase projects in the booming private rental and student accommodation sectors.

Paul Dodsworth, managing director at Wates Construction North, said: “High rise residential will form a big part of our business’ growth strategy for 2019, building on the exceptional quality that the team has delivered at Circle Square.

“As with all growth in our industry our team, their skills and expertise and our valued supply chain partners are integral to this.

He said: “Construction activity in the region is showing no signs of slowing, which is undoubtedly positive news. With positive news, however, comes the risk of complacency, something we must be mindful of if we’re to keep up the incredible momentum we’re seeing in the region.

“With the collapse of Carillion at the start of this year, stability in the construction sector is now more than ever the absolute priority and ensuring the security of projects, and the employment opportunities they bring, is front and centre of everyone’s minds.

“With our business’ strategy for 2019 comes a commitment to ensuring that our growth is sustainable and ultimately that we continue to support the solid performance of our thriving sector in the north west.”