A major new industrial park in Northumberland has been given the go-ahead, paving the way for more than 1m sq ft of employment space and a significant boost to the region’s economy. Northumberland planners have unanimously approved outline proposals from Arlington Real Estate for the 126-acre West Hartford Park scheme in Cramlington. The development is being brought forward in partnership with Homes England and is expected to become one of the region’s most important strategic employment sites. The decision comes as confidence begins to return to the UK logistics and industrial development market. Demand is being driven by growth sectors including offshore wind, advanced manufacturing, artificial intelligence infrastructure, clean technology and modern logistics. West Hartford Park is the largest remaining strategic employment allocation in Northumberland. Once developed, it is expected to support more than 2,000 jobs and attract over £150m of investment. The plans include a wide range of flexible industrial, manufacturing and logistics buildings, with units from 40,000 sq ft up to 532,000 sq ft. The scheme will also feature office space, innovation facilities and supporting retail amenities for occupiers and workers. Its location is a key part of the project’s appeal. The site is close to the deep-sea Port of Blyth and will be promoted as a “near port” destination for businesses involved in offshore wind, clean technology, advanced manufacturing and logistics. Arlington said the development has already generated strong interest from potential occupiers. The company pointed to the site’s significant power capacity, modern infrastructure and lack of highways restrictions as important advantages for businesses looking to invest in the area. Environmental measures also form part of the plans. Around 40 acres of the site will be used for ecological mitigation, green space and landscaping, helping to balance development with environmental improvements. Dean Cook, managing director at Arlington, said the scheme’s scale, flexibility and infrastructure made it exceptionally well placed to support a wide range of industries, including advanced manufacturing, logistics, clean energy and technology. The approval marks an important step forward for Northumberland’s industrial ambitions and could help position the county as a key location for the next wave of clean energy and manufacturing investment. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

A 70,000 sq ft multi-occupier development designed to support innovation, research and advanced manufacturing within one of the UK’s leading science campuses. Glencar is proud to announce the successful completion of Tech Foundry 3, a new 70,000 sq ft multi-occupier technology development at the Harwell Science and Innovation Campus in Oxfordshire, marking another key milestone in the company’s expanding portfolio within the UK’s life sciences and advanced technology sectors. Delivered on behalf of Harwell Science and Innovation Campus, the scheme provides flexible mid-tech units designed for research, innovation, and advanced manufacturing occupiers. The speculative development has been constructed to a shell specification, enabling future tenants to tailor the spaces to meet their specific operational and laboratory requirements. Located at Tech Edge West, Curie Avenue, Harwell, the project forms part of the campus’ continued expansion to support a growing community of scientists, engineers and technology businesses within the Oxford–Cambridge innovation corridor. Designed for Innovation and Flexibility Tech Foundry 3 has been designed as a multi-use, multi-occupier facility, providing high-quality space that can accommodate a range of R&D and light industrial uses. The development comprises multiple units arranged within a distinctive architectural form and has been designed to provide flexible letting opportunities for mid-tech occupiers. Construction commenced in February 2025, with an initial six-week enabling works phase, followed by a 50-week main construction programme, with practical completion achieved in April 2026. Key features of the development include: The design also incorporates a sawtooth roof profile, allowing for the integration of solar panels on south-west facing roof sections to support the campus’ sustainability ambitions. Strengthening a Long-Standing Partnership The completion of Tech Foundry 3 marks Glencar’s third project for Harwell, further strengthening the company’s partnership with the campus and its role in delivering specialist infrastructure for the UK’s rapidly expanding life sciences sector. Roy Jones, Managing Director – South at Glencar, said: “We are delighted to have successfully delivered Tech Foundry 3 at Harwell Science and Innovation Campus. As an established contractor in the life sciences and advanced technology sectors, projects such as this demonstrate Glencar’s ability to deliver high-quality, flexible facilities that support innovation and scientific advancement. Working closely with the Harwell team and our project partners, we have created a development that will provide forward-thinking businesses with the space and infrastructure they need to grow and thrive. We are proud to continue strengthening our relationship with Harwell and to contribute to the campus’ ongoing expansion as one of the UK’s leading centres for scientific discovery and innovation.” Jason Stafford, Development and Construction Director at Harwell, said: “We’re delighted to complete the latest addition to Harwell’s development pipeline. Tech Foundry 3 complements our existing portfolio while providing highly flexible, future-ready space for science, innovation and technology focused occupiers. Its high quality design, significant sustainability achievements, including the connection to the Campus’ innovative Smart Grid, and its nature sensitive landscape setting, is credit to the developer, consultant and contractor team that have worked hard on its delivery.” Supporting the UK’s Life Sciences Growth Harwell Science and Innovation Campus is one of the UK’s leading science clusters and home to world-leading research organisations, technology companies and national laboratories. Developments such as Tech Foundry 3 play a crucial role in providing the next generation of flexible, design-led laboratory, research and technology space required to support continued growth across the sector. Glencar has established a strong track record in the delivery of specialist facilities for the life sciences sector, supporting the development of research, laboratory and advanced manufacturing environments across the UK. Recent projects include the delivery of a 60,000 sq ft fully fitted laboratory and office building at Chesterford Research Park in Cambridge for Aviva Investors. As demand for specialist laboratory, R&D and advanced manufacturing space continues to accelerate, Glencar remains committed to delivering high-quality, sustainable developments that enable scientific discovery, innovation and economic growth. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

SEGRO, a leading owner, manager and developer of modern warehouses, industrial property and data centres, has signed an agreement to lease SEGRO Park Axis, a standalone, recently upgraded Grade A+ building totalling 81,500 sq ft, to Asendia, a major international mail and e-commerce parcel shipping specialist SEGRO Park Axis is strategically located close to the M4, Heathrow Airport and the Heathrow Cargo Centre, and will serve as Asendia’s primary international parcel processing, mail distribution and air conveyance centre for the UK, supporting both the company’s domestic and international operations.  Asendia, founded as a joint venture between La Poste and Swiss Post is expected to move in by January 2027, following a major back to frame redevelopment and extension that will see 29,349 sq ft added to the previous unit. Enhancements include an increased internal eaves height of up to 15 metres and new office space, with completion scheduled for September 2026. Designed with sustainability at its core, the enhanced facility is targeting BREEAM Outstanding and EPC A+ ratings, with key features including photovoltaic panels, dedicated cycle parking and 20 per cent electric vehicle charging provision. The scheme will also support SEGRO’s embodied carbon targets, with a base build design of 332kg/m². Anna Bond, Head of Western Corridor at SEGRO, commented:  “Asendia’s commitment to SEGRO Park Axis highlights the critical role that well located industrial and logistics infrastructure plays in supporting international trade and investment. Sites close to Heathrow Airport are increasingly scarce, and global businesses need confidence that the right space can be delivered in the right place, to the right standard. By investing in high quality, low carbon infrastructure in this corridor, we’re providing the long term platform companies like Asendia need to grow and operate successfully in the UK, and we’re pleased to have them on board.” Carl Loader, Chief Operating Officer, Asendia UK, added:  “We’re pleased to be partnering with SEGRO on this new facility, which marks an important step in strengthening our UK operations and supporting our continued growth. “Sustainability has been a key consideration throughout the design, reflecting our broader ESG ambitions and commitment to reducing environmental impact. At the same time, the flexibility of the space enables us to design workflows that support greater automation and operational efficiency as our business evolves.  “SEGRO Park Axis gives us the scale, specification and reliability required to operate a high-volume international parcel hub, while meeting the expectations of our customers and partners. It provides a strong operational base for our UK business within our wider European and global supply chain. “Just as important is the environment we create for our people. The facility has been designed to support both our operational and office teams, with spaces that encourage collaboration and innovation, alongside areas to step back and recharge. “As a Great Place to Work certified organisation, we place real importance on creating an environment where our people can thrive. Alongside our ongoing focus on ESG performance, including continuing to improve our EcoVadis rating, this investment reflects our commitment to supporting our people, driving performance and building for the long term for the benefit of our customers. SEGRO understands what globally mobile businesses require and has been a strong partner as we continue to invest in our UK operations.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

GMI Construction Group has begun erecting the structural steel frame of the first unit at Mountpark Ferrybridge, marking a major milestone in the regeneration of the former Ferrybridge C Power Station coal yard. Developed by specialist industrial and logistics developer Mountpark, the scheme secured hybrid planning consent in 2024, paving the way for up to 1.64 million sq. ft of B2 general industrial and B8 storage and distribution space, alongside significant infrastructure and connectivity improvements. Once fully operational, Mountpark Ferrybridge could support between 2,000 and 2,500 jobs. The first unit now rising on the 110-acre site is a 65,800 sq. ft distribution facility pre-let to Warburtons, the UK’s largest bakery brand. Secured on a 20-year lease, it will become the company’s 18th UK distribution depot. The project also marks the first collaboration between Mountpark and GMI. As part of the first phase of the development , it will also construct a second high-specification industrial unit. The second unit will total a 40,000 sq ft Grade-A logistics facility where foundations are underway. Practical completion is expected to occur in October 2026 and is available to let. Both buildings are targeting BREEAM ‘Outstanding’ certification and EPC A/A+ ratings. Sustainability measures include roof-mounted photovoltaic panels, air-source heat pumps, enhanced building fabric performance, intelligent LED lighting, electric vehicle charging infrastructure and facilities designed to encourage active and sustainable travel. Yorkshire-based GMI will also deliver extensive enabling works unlocking the wider site. In addition, there will also be new highway junctions, estate roads, drainage and landscaping infrastructure, together with modifications to existing rail infrastructure to maintain operational connectivity for neighbouring industrial users. Strategically located north of Ferrybridge, adjacent to the A1(M) and M62, the previously developed site is bordered by the River Aire and surrounded by established industrial operations. Following demolition of the former power station in 2022, the site was designated for employment use, creating a significant opportunity for long-term regeneration. Working alongside GMI as principal contractor, the wider consultant and advisory team include Oxalis Planning, SMR Architects, Ridge and Partners, SK Environmental, BWB, Circle Sustainability, Lampos, and Whitings. Ed Weston, Regional Director (Yorkshire) at GMI Construction Group, said: “The erection of the steel frame is a highly visible sign of progress and a real milestone. Ferrybridge has long been synonymous with energy and industry. Seeing new structures take shape signals the start of a new chapter focused on advanced logistics, manufacturing and high-quality job creation. We’re proud to be working alongside Mountpark to bring forward this next phase in the site’s evolution.” Brett Huxley, Development Director UK and Ireland at Mountpark, added: “Seeing real progress at this stage of construction is a key moment for the project. The strong momentum on site reflects continued demand for high-quality, sustainable logistics space in strategically located markets. With steel now in the ground, our vision is rapidly becoming a reality.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

The 86,098 sq ft temperature-controlled is now fully operational and serves as Bidfood’s Northeast regional hub, strengthening its logistics capability across the region. Glencar has successfully completed a new £20.5 million temperature-controlled distribution facility for leading UK foodservice provider Bidfood, located in Chester-le-Street, County Durham. Purpose-built to support the demands of a modern foodservice supply chain, the facility comprises 23,628 sq ft of cold store, 8,833 sq ft of chilled marshalling space and 3,114 sq ft of chill store, alongside a large ambient warehouse. The scheme also includes a two-storey main office, dedicated transport office, refuse and plant areas, and a substantial external yard. Glencar delivered the scheme alongside associated infrastructure works, including Section 278 works to support access and connectivity to the surrounding highway network. The project was delivered to programme, reflecting a strong collaborative approach between Glencar, Bidfood and the wider project team. The development incorporates features to support operational efficiency and long-term sustainability, including EV charging infrastructure, 198 car parking spaces and 50 cycle bays. This marks Glencar’s second project for Bidfood, following the successful delivery of its Worcester distribution facility in spring 2025, reinforcing the strength of the ongoing partnership between the two organisations. Tom Kearsley, North Regional Director at Glencar, said: “We are proud to have delivered this facility for Bidfood, building on our existing relationship and demonstrating our capability in delivering complex, temperature-controlled logistics developments. The project is a strong example of collaborative working, with a shared focus on quality, programme certainty and operational performance.” David Foreman, Construction & Property Manager Bidfood, said: “We’re delighted to have worked with Glencar again to deliver this flagship facility for the Northeast. The new site strengthens our regional operations, allowing us to consolidate services, improve efficiency and support future growth. Glencar delivered the project to a high standard, maintaining a professional and well-managed approach throughout. In particular, the site team’s attention to detail and proactive coordination ensured an efficient and well-executed delivery.” The facility will play a key role in supporting Bidfood’s regional logistics operations, providing capacity for future growth and investment in the Northeast. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Sybron, a leading supplier of cleaning, hygiene and catering products to some of the largest names in UK hospitality, has announced its relocation into a new Head Office and distribution centre at ICON Harlow. Scheduled for August, this move represents a major step for Sybron, supporting the company’s strategy for growth, improving day to day operations and giving a modern, future-proof space that reflects what Sybron is as a business today. The facility at Third Avenue is over 70,000 sq ft, including a two-storey, Grade A specification office building. There will be six dock-level loading doors, two level access doors, a 50m-deep secure yard, designed for efficient HGV movement, 12.5m height for improved storage capacity and parking for over 40 cars. The HQ and distribution centre has been built in line with the company’s commitment to sustainability, with LED lighting throughout, air-source heat pumps, EV charging and PV solar panel capability. “We’re delighted to share this very exciting news,” says Sybron operations director, Bradley Henwood. “This is a huge moment for Sybron, reflecting the hard work, commitment and growth achieved by the whole team. We’re genuinely excited about what this next chapter will bring.” This major development follows Sybron’s management buyout 12 months ago and the opening of a second distribution centre in Stafford in November. The Stafford distribution centre has strengthened service levels by increasing delivery frequencies to Sybron’s growing number of national customers and offering more efficient support to key areas such as Birmingham, Manchester, Liverpool, Nottingham, Sheffield, Derby and Leeds. “Our strategy of controlled growth remains on target,” says Sybron’s sales & marketing director, George Mason. “The new facility gives Sybron the space to grow, provides flexibility and allows us to take the business where we want to go in the next 10 to 15 years. From a customer perspective, the new HQ allows increased bulk ordering and the opportunity to explore expanding our products and services. It also signals a great move for staff too, offering scope to develop new skills and for more individual progression.” Sybron’s current Harlow headquarters is in Crammond Park in Lovet Road. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

 A global business has taken one of the first available units at the sustainable industrial development in North Yorkshire Bridges Fund Management (“Bridges”) and Opus North have completed a deal to let a 10,000 sq. ft. unit at Harrogate 47, their sustainable employment development in North Yorkshire, to global business Restrain Company Limited (Restrain). Restrain, a global leader in the potato storage industry, has agreed a 10-year term to lease the unit, which will become its new UK HQ. This move marks a return to the company’s roots, strengthening its presence in the UK while supporting its rapidly growing global operations. The new facility features larger, modern premises for the firm designed to optimise operations and enhance distribution efficiency as its global network continues to expand. Rachel Cook-Coulson, Director, Restrain Company Limited, commented: “With our leadership team now based in the UK, we’re perfectly positioned to combine solid and focused expertise to support our expanding markets and global vision. The UK HQ is more than a new workspace; it’s a hub for innovation, efficiency, and collaboration that will enable us to better serve our global customer base.” The deal completes as construction works conclude on the first phase of development at Harrogate 47, with the delivery of circa 106,000 sq. ft. of speculatively developed Grade A, flexible business units. Appointed contractor Stainforth Construction has completed two terraces of flexible business units ranging in size from 5,570-12,132 sq. ft., plus three detached units from 10,000-21,409 sq. ft. – one of which is now occupied by Restrain. The units are situated on a 45-acre site near Harrogate at J47 of the A1(M) in North Yorkshire, which in total comprises more than 600,000 sq. ft. of employment space for industrial, logistics, hi-tech and office uses, as well as amenity uses, within a landscaped environment. Planning permission was secured from Harrogate Borough Council for the low-carbon scheme, which is targeting BREEAM ‘Excellent’ and has the potential to support 2,000 jobs. The next phase of construction work is due to commence shortly, which will facilitate and service the next tranche of development. The site is close to a number of North Yorkshire towns including Harrogate, Knaresborough and York, with motorway links to access Leeds, Hull and Sheffield via the M1 and M62. Jake Shilston, Investment Manager, Bridges Fund Management, said: “Harrogate 47 has been created to appeal to a broad spectrum of regional and national occupiers seeking sustainably designed accommodation to future-proof business operations. There are chronic shortages of new space like this in the region, and we are seeing keen interest in the available units.” Ryan Unsworth, Joint MD, Opus North said: “Restrain’s new UK headquarter operations are a welcome addition to Harrogate 47 and to have the deal coincide with the completion of this first phase of works is indicative of the demand for high quality, sustainably developed business units in a prime location.” Paul Mack, Director at GV&Co Property Consultants, who negotiated the transaction, said: “We are delighted to welcome such a global name and market leader to Harrogate 47 which is in keeping with the quality of the buildings and the overall park”. Bridges Fund Management invests in the transition to a more sustainable and inclusive economy. It specialises in property solutions that help to create jobs, reduce carbon emissions and regenerate brownfield land. Opus North is recognised as one of the most active and successful developers in Yorkshire, with extensive development delivery experience.  Appointed agents for Harrogate 47 are CBRE and GV&Co. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Prologis UK has secured a 10-year lease with Cainiao, a global ecommerce logistics provider and part of Alibaba Group, marking a significant expansion of its UK operations. Prologis Apex Park DC4’s recent refurbishment was delivered with a strong focus on sustainability, featuring advanced LED lighting, a solar PV array and EV charging infrastructure, resulting in an EPC A rating and supporting lower carbon operations. The 150,911 sq ft DC4 enables rapid operational ramp-up with the installation, through Prologis Essentials, of wide aisle racking providing 20,028 pallet capacity. This allows Cainiao to move in quickly and handle high-volume operations from day one. Sun Beibei, Vice President of Global Supply Chain at Cainiao, said: “By signing a 10-year lease at Prologis Apex Park, we are making a clear, long-term commitment to the UK market. This significant investment reflects our confidence in continued growth and reinforces the stability and reliability of the logistics services we deliver to customers across the region. Prologis Apex Park offers the location, specification and flexibility we need to support our continued growth in the UK. The ability to move quickly through leasing and into a facility that is already optimised for high-volume operations was a key factor in our decision. We look forward to working with Prologis as we expand our network.” Tom Price, Leasing Director at Prologis UK, said: “Cainiao’s decision to locate at Prologis Apex Park reflects the strength of the Midlands as a core logistics location, as well as continued investment from Chinese ecommerce businesses into the UK. As an existing global customer, we were able to move quickly on commercial terms, enabling this transaction to complete” The letting brings Prologis Apex Park to full occupancy, following the recent leasing of DC3 to DHL. The park is home to major global customers including CEVA Logistics, XPO Logistics, Cummins and Hankook, reinforcing its position as one of the Midland’s premier logistics locations with strong connectivity and access to an established labour pool within the Midlands’ ‘golden triangle’. A final opportunity remains at the park, with DC11 offering a 91,000 sq ft build-to-suit unit with full planning consent. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Speculative industrial development project planned for Carnegie Road site Award-winning developer Knight Property Group has completed the purchase of a prominent 6-acre site at 55 Carnegie Road in Hillington Park, Glasgow, marking an exciting new phase of investment at Scotland’s largest industrial park. The site, formerly occupied by a Jewson depot, is set to be transformed, subject to planning, into a prime new build industrial development, delivering high-quality, modern industrial accommodation in one of Scotland’s most established commercial locations. Located within Hillington Park, the development offers occupiers a strategic base just two minutes from Junction 26 of the M8 motorway, providing direct access to Glasgow city centre (7 miles east), the wider Scottish motorway network and key logistics routes. The park also benefits from two railway stations, offering frequent services to Glasgow, while Glasgow Airport lies just three miles away to the west. The new scheme will deliver approximately 130,000 sq ft of high-specification industrial accommodation, designed to modern standards and offering flexible build-to-suit opportunities. Units will be available to let and will be suitable for logistics, storage, manufacturing, parcel delivery and large trade operators. Hillington Park is home to over 500 national and local businesses and supports more than 8,000 employees, with nearby occupiers including Arnold Clark, Graham Plumbers’ Merchant and Sweeney Kincaid. The park also offers extensive amenities, including an on-site nursery and gym, alongside national retailers such as Starbucks, Greggs, Burger King, Subway, Farmfoods and a Shell filling station. Knight Property Group has built a strong reputation for the successful delivery of high-quality speculative industrial developments across Scotland. James Barrack Jnr, Director of Knight Property Group commented: “We have a proven track-record in delivering high-quality speculative industrial developments across Scotland, and securing this 6-acre site at Hillington Park represents another key milestone for the business. “Hillington Park is widely recognised as Scotland’s premier industrial and business location and we are delighted to have secured this outstanding 6-acre site. Demand for high-quality, strategically located industrial space across Glasgow and the central belt remains extremely strong. This development will deliver best-in-class accommodation capable of meeting modern occupier requirements, with flexibility for build-to-suit solutions up to 130,000 sq ft, subject to planning.” Gregor Harvie, Partner of joint agents Ryden, added: “Opportunities of this scale and quality within Hillington Park are increasingly rare. With immediate access to the M8 and exceptional public transport links, the site is ideally suited to logistics, trade counter and manufacturing occupiers seeking a highly prominent and connected base in Glasgow. We anticipate strong levels of interest.” For further information or to discuss occupier requirements, please contact the joint agents, Graham & Sibbald or Ryden. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Erdgard Developments are pleased to have secured detailed planning consent for their Central Point development at Willenhall Road, Walsall, and to announce an immediate start on site. The scheme will provide a total of 93,110 sq. ft in six units ranging from 5,880 sq. ft to 26,236 sq. ft built to BREEAM Very Good and EPC A standards. Site clearance works are underway, to allow MCS Group to start construction in May on a speculative basis, giving occupiers the ability to occupy units from February 2027. Gareth Williams, Director at Erdgard said “There is a lack of good quality new stock in the Walsall area and in the Black Country generally, so Central Point will deliver much needed Grade A space. A commitment to speculative development is a demonstration of confidence in this location and market, and we look forward to early occupier discussions.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals