Train operator NS has sold a 16-hectare site near Utrecht central station to  property developers MRP and Ballast Nedam as it continues to profit from the real estate boom.

Financial details were not disclosed, but NS confirmed it was one of its largest-ever property transactions, the Financieele Dagblad reported.

The former marshalling yard will have 2,600 housing units, a school, cafes and restaurants, stores, as well as ample green space and low traffic streets when the residential area is completed in 2025.

NS said future residents would not suffer from noise and that new bicycle tunnels will connect the area to the nearby city centre.

NS is divesting many non-core operations including station shops and real estate. A new residential area with 650 homes has been created near Amersfoort, while another with 4,500 housing units has been sold in Amsterdam Duivendrecht.

NS is also considering selling a 20-hectare site near Zwolle.