Marks & Spencer has begun construction on its new state‑of‑the‑art automated National Distribution Centre (NDC) in Northamptonshire, marking a major milestone in the company’s £340 million investment to modernise and future‑proof its food supply chain. To mark the start of the build, Michelle Elliman, from M&S Rugby store joined Kevin
Plans for two brand new South West hubs have been revealed by leading logistics network, Pall-Ex Group, as it earmarks an £8 million investment for strengthening its services across the region. The South West peninsula, often known as the ‘final frontier’, has historically been one of the most challenging delivery
A SIGNIFICANT refurbishment to a c.190,000 sq ft industrial unit in Northampton has been completed by leading fit out and refurbishment contractor Pexhurst, transforming the building into a more sustainable, efficient and community-connected industrial space through an ambitious reuse-first delivery model. The multi-million-pound project for Aviva involved upgrading the warehouse and office spaces through new M&E installations, polished concrete flooring, new finishes and repairs to
Prologis UK has partnered with TV presenter and architect George Clarke on a new content campaign designed to challenge perceptions of logistics buildings and bring greater visibility to one of the UK’s most essential but often overlooked sectors. The campaign includes a new brand film, The Power of Logistics, and
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
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
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
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 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
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
Marks & Spencer has begun construction on its new state‑of‑the‑art automated National Distribution Centre (NDC) in Northamptonshire, marking a major milestone in the company’s £340 million investment to modernise and future‑proof its food supply chain. To mark the start of the build, Michelle Elliman, from M&S Rugby store joined Kevin Bennett, CEO of Gist (M&S Food’s logistics arm), Stuart Andrew, MP for Daventry and Shadow Secretary of State for Health and Social Care and Prologis for an on-site for a steel‑signing ceremony. The steel‑signing event recognised the start of construction on the 1.3 million sqft facility, celebrating the largest supply chain investment in M&S history and a major step toward doubling the size of the Food business. The site will significantly increase capacity, reduce long‑term cost to serve, and improve product availability for customers. Over 200 M&S Food stores will be serviced by the new DC, supporting colleagues with faster deliveries and simpler stock and fill processes, so they can spend more time with customers on the shop floor. Kevin Bennett, who leads M&S Food’s logistics arm said: “Starting the build on this site marks a major step in transforming M&S into a true destination for the weekly shop, with a modernised supply chain at the heart of that ambition. This investment will boost capacity for future growth, lower our long‑term cost to serve, and improve product availability so customers get the right products in the right place at the right time. “With construction underway, this new site strengthens our network and puts us ahead of the volume curve as we build a bigger, better food business. By deploying the latest proven automation, we’re future‑proofing our operations and UK retail logistics, while creating 1,000 permanent jobs on site.” Stuart Andrew, MP for Daventry and Shadow Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, said: “I welcome the investment by Marks & Spencer into the new distribution centre in Daventry. It was great to visit the impressive site and meet the people involved and learn about the future plans for the centre. This area has for a long time been at the heart of the UK’s logistic network and this investment shows confidence in the local people and businesses.” James Hemstock, Vice President of Capital Deployment at Prologis UK, said:“This construction milestone reflects the incredible strength of collaboration behind this project. Working closely with M&S, Gist, Winvic and West Northamptonshire Council, this project from the outset has been shaped by a shared commitment to quality, sustainability and long-term value.” The new NDC will use advanced automation to boost efficiency, accuracy and ease of restocking, including pallet cranes, high‑speed shuttles and hands‑free picking. It is designed to achieve a BREEAM Outstanding rating, with sustainability features such as recycled materials, rooftop solar, rainwater harvesting, EV charging and a dedicated vehicle maintenance unit. This investment supports M&S’ supply chain transformation, store rotation and renewal, and digital and technology plans, aiming for 420 larger Food stores and a more productive set of 180 full‑line stores by 2027/28. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Plans for two brand new South West hubs have been revealed by leading logistics network, Pall-Ex Group, as it earmarks an £8 million investment for strengthening its services across the region. The South West peninsula, often known as the ‘final frontier’, has historically been one of the most challenging delivery locations in the UK due to its landscape. In spite of that, the region has been dubbed a ‘logistics hot spot’, with brands like Pall-Ex continuing to see year-on-year growth. Now, businesses throughout the region will soon benefit from the launch of two new facilities in Willand, Devon (Pall-Ex South West), and Launceston in Cornwall (Pall-Ex Logistics), giving them access to a range of haulage services including next-day palletised freight distribution, warehousing and storage. Pall-Ex South West’s 218,000 sq ft hub in Willand, Devon, is expected to be completed by Summer 2026. While existing staff will relocate to the new site—located less than half a mile from the current facility—the expansion is expected to increase its local workforce by 15%, with roles spanning customer service and night planners, to warehouse and forklift operators. Its plans to recruit will enable the site to double its operational limits and process an excess of 60 vehicles per night across the two new sites. Meanwhile, the Launceston hub—a 114,000 sq ft purpose-built facility—is already operational, where it offers increased storage capacity of up to 3,500 pallets and the movement of 650 pallets per day. The successful relocation of its existing team will also be bolstered by a further 10 – 15% growth in its workforce; with roles in warehouse staffing, supervision and management roles soon to be available. In addition to their enhanced service capabilities, both sites will benefit from a series of sustainability-focused features, including all-electric forklift truck fleets, solar panels and green water filtering—additions that will see them meet the highest sustainability ‘BREEAM standards’. While the logistics provider already has existing hubs in the region, these have since reached capacity. This latest investment is a strategic move intended to give the company access to larger, purpose-built spaces, designed to better support its growing customer base. Commenting on the investment, Barry Byers, chief operating officer for Pall-Ex Group, said: “The South West has always been a challenging location for distribution companies. Yet in the past five years, we’ve generated unprecedented growth here, with more and more businesses around the region demanding a reliable and robust logistics network. With that growth, though, comes the need to evolve. That’s why the time feels right to make this significant investment to ensure that our distribution services are up to the challenge. “The last 30 years have been all about adapting and future-proofing the business; whether through supporting our partners around the country, investing in the latest technology to provide them with unparalleled visibility, or by enhancing our regional distribution services. This announcement really is testament to the hard work put in to get us where we are now in the South West, so that we can make sure we’re perfectly positioned to tackle the regional challenges of the next three decades.” News of the investment follows a landmark start to the year for the brand, as it celebrated its 30th anniversary. Since its incorporation three decades ago, Pall-Ex has evolved into a national and international powerhouse, with this latest South West expansion representing the next chapter in its commitment to growth. For more information on Pall-Ex South West, visit https://www.pallexsouthwest.com/ or for further details on Pall-Ex Logistics (Devon & Cornwall), visit: https://www.pallexlogistics.co.uk/. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
A SIGNIFICANT refurbishment to a c.190,000 sq ft industrial unit in Northampton has been completed by leading fit out and refurbishment contractor Pexhurst, transforming the building into a more sustainable, efficient and community-connected industrial space through an ambitious reuse-first delivery model. The multi-million-pound project for Aviva involved upgrading the warehouse and office spaces through new M&E installations, polished concrete flooring, new finishes and repairs to existing access doors, alongside the installation of five new 22kW dual-head electric vehicle chargers. A large-scale rooftop solar PV system was also installed, comprising 678 panels and delivering a total capacity of 400kWp. The system is expected to generate around 312,000 kWh of electricity annually, saving approximately 60 tCO2e per year. As part of the works, the existing gas utility was fully removed, with the building now operating on all-electric systems supported by on-site renewable generation. These improvements support the building’s strong environmental performance and have enabled the property to achieve an EPC A rating. Central to the refurbishment was a strategy focused on retaining and reusing materials wherever possible. Pexhurst worked closely with circular economy consultancy Reusefully to embed reuse principles from an early stage, helping to identify opportunities to retain materials on site, redirect surplus items into reuse systems and maximise environmental and social values throughout the programme. Pexhurst established a dedicated reuse area on site to safeguard items inherited from earlier works, allowing a significant proportion of sanitaryware, ceiling tiles, carpet tiles and timber skirting boards to be reinstated within the building, including the reuse of existing carpet and ceiling tiles within the staircases. In total, 158 m² of carpet tiles and 62 m² of ceiling tiles were retained in situ, while a further 550 m² of carpet tiles were collected by Urban Miners for reuse within the industry, ensuring materials remained in circulation rather than being discarded. Combined with the reuse of existing materials, the approach delivered a significant saving when compared with installing new products. Charlie Hazeltine, contracts manager at Pexhurst, said: “This project shows what can be achieved when sustainability sits at the centre of a refurbishment programme. With the right team and supply chain partners, materials that are often considered disposable can be reused, repaired or rehomed to extend their lifecycle. It demonstrates how early design-stage planning and careful coordination can achieve meaningful environmental and financial benefits while maintaining the quality of the finished space for clients and future occupiers.” Alongside this reuse activity, the team procured more than 600 litres of sustainably sourced HVO to power site plant, delivering an estimated carbon saving of 1.6 tCO₂e compared with traditional diesel. This saving is equivalent to the emissions from around 4,000 miles driven by an average petrol vehicle. Vinyl offcuts were collected for closed-loop recycling, allowing them to be remanufactured into new flooring rather than downcycled, while redundant lighting equipment was sent to Recolight for specialist recycling. 262 pallets in total were returned through the Pallet Loop scheme to be repaired and reintroduced into commercial circulation, avoiding an estimated 54 cubic metres of waste – equivalent to six 12-yard skips. A key sustainability gain came from a major change in ceiling tile specification, replacing the original product – which offered no viable end-of-life route – with a Rockfon tile supported by a full closed-loop recycling system. In addition, all major new refurbishment materials were supported by the creation of material passports. The collated datasheets, responsible sourcing documentation, EPDs and end-of-life pathways were incorporated into the operation and maintenance manual to equip future occupiers with the information needed to make circular, low-waste decisions throughout the building’s lifecycle. To support occupier wellbeing and encourage social interaction, the project also delivered a new external amenity space, featuring outdoor seating, table tennis tables and extensive new landscaping and planting. This enhanced outdoor environment provides future tenants with dedicated space for breaks, informal meeting and recreation. Alongside the construction programme, Pexhurst delivered a range of community initiatives that strengthened local connections and enhanced the project’s social value legacy. The team partnered with Pineham Barns Primary School to run a ‘draw your favourite building’ competition involving 30 pupils. Three winners received Amazon vouchers and all of the 30 entries were collaged and displayed on the Heras fence covers around the site for the children to see. Pexhurst also strengthened its links with local education by providing work experience opportunities to two students. Additional activity included food bank donations and a volunteering day at Restore Northampton, where members of the Pexhurst team, together with project partners from Leslie Clark and Spring Building Consultancy, supported donation sorting and parcel packing. A community litter pick, delivered in collaboration with circular economy consultancy Reusefully, further contributed to improving the surrounding area, while surplus materials such as paint have been directed into additional reuse schemes, including Dulux’s Community RePaint initiative, ensuring they continue to benefit local groups. Similarly, several leftover basins were donated to Phoenix Resource Centre for use in community projects in Kenya. Hazeltine added: “Our work on this project shows how a refurbishment can combine environmental performance with genuine community impact. By maximising material reuse and collaborating with local organisations, we’ve helped ensure the project delivers benefits that reach far beyond the building itself and its future users.” To learn more about Pexhurst, visit www.pexhurst.co.uk Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Prologis UK has partnered with TV presenter and architect George Clarke on a new content campaign designed to challenge perceptions of logistics buildings and bring greater visibility to one of the UK’s most essential but often overlooked sectors. The campaign includes a new brand film, The Power of Logistics, and a six-part docuseries, Logistics Unboxed. Fronted by Clarke, the series goes behind the scenes at Prologis RFI DIRFT, where 1.8 million sq ft of logistics space is currently under construction. Across the series, Clarke follows the development journey from groundwork through to completion, exploring the design, engineering, sustainability and specialist expertise behind modern logistics spaces. George Clarke said: “Most people don’t think about logistics buildings, but they are part of the hidden architecture of everyday life. Once you get behind the scenes, the scale, design and engineering involved is genuinely fascinating. These are spaces that keep the country moving, and I’m excited to help tell that story with Prologis.” The campaign launches as activity at Prologis RFI DIRFT continues to gather pace, with three build-to-suit developments under construction for Marks & Spencer, XPO / Arla and Laura James alongside the speculatively developed DC107. Prologis is also continuing to progress the wider development of DIRFT, including work linked to the completion of Phase III and the progression of future phases. Together, the activities underway underline the scale of activity at DIRFT and its role as one of the UK’s most important logistics locations. Paul Weston, Regional, Head at Prologis UK, said: “Warehouses are part of the infrastructure of everyday life, but they are rarely seen by the wider UK population who rely on them. We wanted to open up the story behind these buildings and show the thought, innovation and expertise that goes into creating them. George brings genuine curiosity, credibility and a passion for the built environment, making him the ideal partner for this campaign.” Logistics Unboxed is now available via Prologis UK’s website and on social media channels. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
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