Stoford is making progress on a new DHL parcel distribution service centre as part of the next phase of a job-creating logistics park in East Devon.
Construction is underway on two new buildings that will deliver a combined 83,500 sq ft of industrial/logistics accommodation at Exeter Logistics Park, on the former Hayes Farm, Clyst Honiton.
They include a modern, bespoke facility of 55,000 sq ft on behalf of DHL that has been designed to reduce the logistics firm’s environmental footprint by minimising the number of vehicles required on site.
Stoford is targeting BREEAM ‘very good’ and an EPC A rating for the new service centre, which will benefit from sustainability features including PV solar panels, EV charging points, a sustainable urban drainage system and a green roof atop integral office areas.
The new development will also promote employee health and wellbeing through the creation of trim trail and outdoor gym areas, including bodyweight exercise equipment.
A second unit of c. 28,500 sq ft is being developed speculatively by Stoford, in partnership with Urban Logistics REIT, and is expected to operate as a conventional facility with flexible warehouse space. The new developments could create more than 150 new jobs when they are functional in Q1 2022.
Dan Gallagher, Joint Managing Director, Stoford said: “This is an ambitious build programme that recognises the need for Exeter Logistics Park to be developed responsibly, delivering environmental and economic benefits. There is huge pent up demand for logistics and distribution accommodation of this size and quality in the region, which is why we’ve taken the decision to develop speculatively. We’re excited by the potential to establish the site as the South West’s leading distribution hub, south of Bristol.”
John Barker, Development Director at investor, Urban Logistics REIT, said: “Because of the lack of supply in this location and the quality of the build, we’re already seeing some early interest. This is another deployment of capital into the Exeter market which should be seen as a sign of our confidence in the South West market which we see as an important market for logistics.”
Richard Moffitt, CEO of Urban Logistics REIT, commented: “The location of this scheme is already endorsed by logistics operators and the micro location is excellent, being close to the M5 and the airport. We are excited to be working with Stoford and the Church Commissioners for England to bring this site forward.”
Joanna Loxton, Head of Strategic Land for the Church Commissioners for England, said: “The Church Commissioners are delighted to be partnering with Stoford to deliver these new facilities at Exeter Logistics Park. We are pleased to see the strong sustainability credentials that form a key part of the scheme, including infrastructure for electric vehicles, green roof spaces and the provision of solar panels, all of which will contribute towards carbon reduction.”
Councillor Paul Hayward, East Devon District Council’s Deputy Leader and Portfolio Holder for Economy and Assets, said: “This exciting development builds upon the incredible growth of the wider Exeter and East Devon Enterprise Zone and will create much welcomed employment for the area. Additionally, this innovative building design will provide a significant number of environmental benefits which will accord with the aims and objectives of East Devon District Council to be a green, carbon-zero and eco-friendly local authority. I look forward to seeing the building in all its glory and send my thanks to all involved for choosing East Devon as the place where they wish to do business.”
Exeter Logistics Park is part of the second phase of a significant industrial scheme on a 55-acre site, owned by the Church Commissioners for England. It is part of the Exeter and East Devon Growth Point economic development zone east of the M5, near Exeter Airport.
All enquiries regarding Exeter Logistics Park should be directed to the scheme’s retained agents, JLL, Cushman & Wakefield and M1 Agency.
