Durham County Council Gives Green Light For Extra 3M Sq Ft Citrus Durham has secured planning consent from Durham County Council for the next £340M investment at its Integra 61 mixed-use development at J61 of the A1(M). Approval has been granted for an extension to the west of the Integra
Retail giant Next is pressing ahead with a significant expansion of its UK logistics infrastructure, committing more than £300m to new warehouse development at its established Elmsall complex in West Yorkshire. The scheme includes plans for a new 1.2 million sq ft distribution facility, known as E4, which has already
Colliers represented Asda in the transaction The 322,198 sq ft warehouse, located on the Wheatlea Industrial Estate, is sold with full vacant possession. Prime Box will act as development manager and, together with JD.com, is looking to bring forward a full refurbishment of the asset. The deal forms part of
SEGRO has announced further progress in its growing data centre programme, which now exceeds 2.5GW of planned capacity. The company has signed an agreement for a new powered shell data centre at the Slough Trading Estate, strengthening its long-standing presence at one of Europe’s largest data centre hubs. The development
Leading commercial property developer, Stoford has completed a bespoke manufacturing facility for MiTek at Worcester Six Business Park. The 278,048 sq ft building consolidates MiTek’s UK and European operations, serving as the business’ EMEA headquarters. Delivered by main contractor Benniman, the development is the first to be delivered on the
The UK’s industrial and logistics sector is entering a new era of complexity, driven by automation, labour market pressures, sustainability requirements, planning delays and shifting land values. Yet amid this transformation, KAM, part of Contollo Group, says one truth remains constant: while the base build of a warehouse may appear
A major new industrial development has been launched in North Lanarkshire, with Ravenscraig Enterprise Park officially brought to market by global real estate adviser CBRE on behalf of Fusion Assets Ltd. The first phase of the scheme will deliver 29,400 sq ft of industrial, business and storage space, addressing a
Plans have been submitted for a £51m industrial and logistics development in Northampton, with the proposed scheme set to bring forward a new generation of high-spec warehouse space in one of the UK’s most established employment locations. The project, known as Platform Brackmills, will be delivered on an 11.5-acre site
Contractor J. Smart & Co has joined forces with developer Manse LLP to bring forward a significant new industrial and logistics scheme at Eurocentral, with a planning application now submitted to North Lanarkshire Council. The proposed development, known as Eurocentral Gateway, will deliver more than 200,000 sq ft of modern
PLP, a leading logistics developer and investment manager, has acquired a 65-acre development site with frontage to the M1 immediately adjacent to Junction 27 of the M1 at Sherwood Business Park, Nottingham. PLP Nottingham will deliver a three-unit scheme totalling 700,000 sq ft across three buildings, 69,000 sq ft, 172,000
Durham County Council Gives Green Light For Extra 3M Sq Ft Citrus Durham has secured planning consent from Durham County Council for the next £340M investment at its Integra 61 mixed-use development at J61 of the A1(M). Approval has been granted for an extension to the west of the Integra 61 scheme to accommodate a further 3 million sq ft of employment space. The plans for the second phase follow the success of the existing £400M Integra 61 development, where 90% of the 3m sq ft of developable space is already complete. The major investment into the second phase has the potential to create some 300 new jobs throughout the build resulting in up to £30m in additional economic output (GVA) into the economy each year. Operationally the development could support c3000 jobs once operational dependant on occupiers, generating up to £100m of additional economic output (GVA) into the economy each year. The outline planning consent allows for a range of storage/distribution and manufacturing units of varying sizes, to reflect market demand from regional businesses as well as those looking to invest in premises in the region. Now that the fundamental development principles of bringing a scheme forward have been approved, later reserved matters applications will evolve the exact design and scale, following the principles now established. The proposed development will, dependant on speed of uptake and demand, require the delivery of the Bowburn Development Route (relief road) in conjunction with Durham County Council and other stakeholders. Integra 61 is already home to Amazon’s 2m sq ft fulfilment centre, a further 640,000 sq ft of speculative logistics space at Connect at Integra 61 and an impressive roadside portfolio including Costa and Greggs along with an incoming £4 million EG On The Move petrol station with a convenience store and separate Starbucks drive-thru. Tesla has also installed 19 new Superchargers on site. Construction is well underway on Marton Care’s new 73 bedroom care home facility to complement the 260 new homes already developed by Persimmon and Bellway. James Taylor, Regional Director at Citrus, said: “We are extremely pleased to have secured outline planning consent, which is a significant milestone and the culmination of a long-held vision to expand Integra 61 and build on our successes across two phases, together once complete creating one of the region’s largest employment destinations. We’d like to thank the many stakeholders that continue to support us on this journey and we look forward to delivering this exciting phase with our partners.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Retail giant Next is pressing ahead with a significant expansion of its UK logistics infrastructure, committing more than £300m to new warehouse development at its established Elmsall complex in West Yorkshire. The scheme includes plans for a new 1.2 million sq ft distribution facility, known as E4, which has already secured planning consent. Construction is expected to begin in 2028, with phased delivery from 2029 and full operational capability targeted early in the next decade. The development forms part of a wider acceleration of Next’s warehouse investment programme, driven by sustained growth in online sales and increasing pressure on existing capacity. The retailer reported that web sales have grown by 28 per cent over the past two years, significantly outpacing earlier forecasts of 10 per cent. At present, the Elmsall site comprises three major distribution buildings, including the recently delivered E3 facility, which added around 50 per cent to the group’s boxed storage capacity. However, stronger-than-expected demand, alongside shifts in product mix and stockholding strategies, has led to higher utilisation levels than originally planned. Next said that warehouse occupancy has already approached peak levels, prompting the decision to bring forward further phases of development to maintain operational efficiency and avoid congestion. Additional short-term capacity will be created through expansion works and the use of nearby facilities, ahead of the longer-term delivery of the new E4 building. The proposed E4 warehouse is expected to increase overall capacity at the Elmsall complex by at least 50 per cent and support up to £2.5bn of additional sales once fully operational. The wider investment programme, totalling £307m over the next three years, will also enhance automation, storage capability and distribution performance across the network. Alongside its logistics expansion, Next continues to report strong financial performance, with pre-tax profits rising to £1.2bn for the year to January 2026. The company said the investment in infrastructure will play a critical role in supporting long-term growth, particularly as international sales continue to outperform the domestic market. The expansion reflects a broader trend across the retail sector, where major operators are investing heavily in large-scale logistics assets to meet evolving consumer expectations around speed, availability and reliability. For Next, the Elmsall development represents a cornerstone of its future supply chain strategy, ensuring the business is equipped to handle continued growth in e-commerce while maintaining efficiency across its UK operations. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Colliers represented Asda in the transaction The 322,198 sq ft warehouse, located on the Wheatlea Industrial Estate, is sold with full vacant possession. Prime Box will act as development manager and, together with JD.com, is looking to bring forward a full refurbishment of the asset. The deal forms part of Prime Box’s strategy to acquire and reposition assets across the UK. John Sullivan, director in the Industrial & Logistics team at Colliers, comments: “We are pleased to have disposed of the distribution centre for Asda as part of its rationalisation strategy. The North West continues to offer some of the best located warehouses for distribution across the UK and there’s a real depth of demand for value-add opportunities.” Rob Butterworth, Head of Estates at Asda, added: “Wigan has not been a part of our supply chain for a number of years and following the end of a tenancy last year, it made sense to release the property back to the market. We’re pleased to have worked with Colliers in the disposal of the site.” Rock Real Estate and ACRE Capital Real Estate advised Prime Box. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
SEGRO has announced further progress in its growing data centre programme, which now exceeds 2.5GW of planned capacity. The company has signed an agreement for a new powered shell data centre at the Slough Trading Estate, strengthening its long-standing presence at one of Europe’s largest data centre hubs. The development will deliver 30,000 sq m of space across three floors of data halls, along with a rooftop plant deck. Planning permission has already been secured through the estate’s Simplified Planning Zone, allowing the project to move forward efficiently. The facility will be built to high sustainability standards, with SEGRO targeting a BREEAM ‘Excellent’ rating. The agreement also includes the provision of 50MVA of power once fully operational, with the customer contracting the supply directly. In a separate update, SEGRO confirmed that it has received planning committee approval for its first fully fitted data centre at SEGRO Premier Park in Park Royal. The scheme is being delivered in partnership with Pure Data Centres Group. The facility will benefit from 70MVA of incoming power and will incorporate energy-efficient design features, including closed-loop liquid cooling technology aimed at reducing water consumption. The partners will now continue working with stakeholders to finalise planning and secure a pre-let agreement. Andrew Pilsworth, Managing Director of Data Centres and Strategic Partnerships at SEGRO, said the latest developments highlight continued momentum in delivering on the company’s long-term data centre strategy. He noted that SEGRO’s established footprint at Slough Trading Estate, built up over two decades, combined with its planning framework, has enabled further expansion for an existing customer while making efficient use of a relatively compact site. He added that securing planning approval at Premier Park marks an important step in advancing both the joint venture project and SEGRO’s broader ambitions in fully fitted data centre developments. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Leading commercial property developer, Stoford has completed a bespoke manufacturing facility for MiTek at Worcester Six Business Park. The 278,048 sq ft building consolidates MiTek’s UK and European operations, serving as the business’ EMEA headquarters. Delivered by main contractor Benniman, the development is the first to be delivered on the southern extension. Completion follows a ribbon cutting ceremony which was attended by MiTek Chairman and CEO, Mark Thom who travelled from the United States for the occasion. Stoford directors Edward Peel and Alex Morgan, and senior dignitaries from both Worcestershire County Council and Wychavon District Council were also present. James Morgan, Managing Director at MiTek: “Opening our home at Worcester Six marks a new chapter in MiTek’s journey as an offsite construction enabler. This facility establishes our European hub for streamlining design, manufacturing, and innovation, and offers a collaborative space where partners across the industry can co-create solutions that accelerate timber construction and raise standards for everyone.” Edward Peel, Director at Stoford: “MiTek’s decision to establish its EMEA headquarters at Worcester Six is significant for the region. It further strengthens Worcestershire’s reputation as a hub for international business. We’re extremely proud to have achieved practical completion on this state-of-the-art facility which will support new jobs, attract long-term investment, and contribute meaningfully to the region’s economic growth for years to come.” Councillor Alan Amos, Cabinet Member with Responsibility for Business and Skills at Worcestershire County Council, said: “This is great news for Worcestershire and for local people. MiTek choosing to base its European headquarters here shows the confidence global companies have in our area. Developments like this bring skilled jobs, investment and long-term benefits for the local economy.” Cllr Richard Morris, Leader of Wychavon District Council and Executive Board Member for Economic Growth and Tourism, said: “Securing one of the largest business developments the county has seen in many years reflects the strength of Worcester Six as a location and is a sign of confidence in Wychavon and Worcestershire as a whole. MiTek’s decision to base its EMEA headquarters here brings high-value jobs, long-term investment and international visibility, reinforcing Wychavon’s reputation as a place where ambitious businesses can grow and succeed.” Worcester Six is a high-quality business park, located off junction 6 of the M5, that has already attracted a number of world class businesses to the region, including: Alliance Flooring Distribution, IONOS, ZwickRoell, Kohler Mira, Sierra Engineering, Siemens, Spire Healthcare, Kimal, Super Smart Service, Stop Start Logistics and Bidfood. For details about availability at Worcester Six, please contact the schemes retained agents: Charles D’Auncey at Harris Lamb – charles.dauncey@harrislamb.com or Tom Arnold at Colliers – tom.arnold@colliers.com. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The UK’s industrial and logistics sector is entering a new era of complexity, driven by automation, labour market pressures, sustainability requirements, planning delays and shifting land values. Yet amid this transformation, KAM, part of Contollo Group, says one truth remains constant: while the base build of a warehouse may appear straightforward, the fit-out is where the real complexity lies. “On the surface, a warehouse can look like a fairly simple construction project,” Contollo Group Director Scott Price says. “But once you introduce automation, temperature control, manufacturing processes or robotics, the building becomes a high-performance machine. The fit-out is where projects succeed or unnecessary compromises have to be made” The industrial sector has historically been the quiet workhorse of the retail economy. Today, it sits at the forefront of retail success, driven by the relentless rise of eCommerce and the need for faster, more resilient supply chains with automated distribution centres being integral. Yet Price warns that many projects still treat automation as an afterthought. Integrating automation into a building that is already well into the design process and programme – or worse, already under construction – creates a level of complexity that cannot be underestimated. Speaking as Contollo Group expands its industrial and manufacturing portfolio across the UK, Price comments: “We’re now in a phase where warehouse automation isn’t a ‘nice to have’ – it’s becoming the backbone of logistics resilience. The only sustainable response is to design buildings and automation systems as one integrated ecosystem from the very start.” Price warns that the biggest operational risks arise long before a shovel hits the ground. “Developer base build specs and automation contractor requirements rarely align without challenge. For example, floor slab tolerances, deformation limits, shrinkage expectations and pattern loading are not small technicalities. If they’re accepted at face value, they can add millions to a project or introduce risks that only surface once the system is live.” He argues that logistics operators who treat early-stage design as a strategic investment, not a procedural step, will be the ones who stay competitive. “The winners will be those who interrogate every clause, negotiate every interface, and bring specialist project managers into the process early. Warehousing has become a strategic engine for speed, resilience and competitive advantage. You can’t afford to get the fundamentals wrong.” That mindset becomes even more critical when planning for future expansion. As eCommerce reshapes operational models, internal volume is becoming as valuable as footprint. Traditional ground-level operations are giving way to mezzanines, pick towers and multi-level fulfilment environments, but Price notes that the real challenge is balancing day-one cost with long-term flexibility. Designing for future floor slab loads, or incorporating additional steel into structural mezzanines for future vertical expansion, can avoid costly disruption later. “Futureproofing isn’t about overbuilding, it’s about making smart decisions that keep options open without inflating the base build unnecessarily.” Electrical design presents another hidden pressure point. Automation firms often have not finalised their electrical requirements when the base build specification is being agreed, meaning the eventual load can far exceed the developer’s standard offer. Price says this is where specialist engineering input becomes essential. “Automation load calculations are frequently conservative because diversity isn’t applied. Without challenge, you end up designing for every motor starting simultaneously, which is unrealistic and expensive.” Sprinkler design and insurer engagement add further layers of complexity. Automation equipment rarely conforms to standard design details, and densely packed systems, such as multi-shuttle installations, require detailed coordination to agree acceptable fire protection strategies. Price stresses that insurers must be brought in early. “If you wait until procurement to engage insurers, you’ve already lost time. Early coordination on principles and approval pathways avoids redesign, delay and unnecessary cost.” Health and safety responsibilities also evolve as automation becomes more sophisticated. Under CDM Regulations, a Principal Designer must be appointed not only for the building works but also for the automation installation. Price advises: “Segregating the site into defined zones can reduce risk and improve control.” Ultimately, Price says, the success of any logistics project hinges on programme cohesion. New builds and retrofits alike depend on multiple interlocking timelines, each with its own milestones and data requirements. “If these programmes aren’t synced from the outset, delays and cost escalation become almost inevitable.” “Warehouses of the future will be industrial hubs, energy generators and data-rich environments,” Price says. “They must be designed for long-term productivity, not just short-term occupation.” Price emphasises that the winners in this new landscape will be those who align building design, automation strategy and commercial negotiations from day one. “Fit-out is no longer a technical exercise – it’s a strategic investment. Organisations that recognise this early, and who bring the right expertise to the table, will be the ones who deliver resilient, efficient and future-ready logistics assets.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
A major new industrial development has been launched in North Lanarkshire, with Ravenscraig Enterprise Park officially brought to market by global real estate adviser CBRE on behalf of Fusion Assets Ltd. The first phase of the scheme will deliver 29,400 sq ft of industrial, business and storage space, addressing a long-standing imbalance where demand has continued to outstrip supply across the region. Craig Semple, director at CBRE Scotland, described the launch as a significant milestone for central Scotland. He noted that businesses have faced a persistent shortage of modern, high-quality premises, particularly those seeking well-located space to support growth. He explained that the development will not only help meet this demand, but also reflects growing confidence in the strength of the regional market. With strong infrastructure, excellent motorway connections and the flexibility to support a range of uses, the site is expected to attract interest from both regional and national occupiers. He added that construction is due to begin in March 2026, with the first units ready for occupation in the final quarter of the year. In total, the development will provide 62,400 sq ft across eight units, delivered over two phases, bringing much-needed new stock to the central Scotland industrial market. The project is being led by Fusion Assets Ltd, the property development and regeneration arm of North Lanarkshire Council. It is supported by £4.4 million in public funding from the Glasgow City Region City Deal and the Scottish Government’s Vacant and Derelict Land Fund. A further £6.8 million of City Deal funding has been allocated to support future commercial development at Ravenscraig and other sites across North Lanarkshire. Murray Collins, managing director of Fusion Assets Ltd, said the development builds on significant investment already made across the wider Ravenscraig site. He highlighted the company’s commitment to transforming brownfield land into high-quality commercial space that can support job creation and long-term economic growth. He also pointed to strong demand for modern industrial and commercial premises, underlining the importance of delivering new space quickly, with Ravenscraig playing a central role in those plans. Strategically located with direct access to the M74 and M8 motorways, the site offers excellent connectivity to key markets, labour pools and national transport networks, making it an attractive proposition for a wide range of businesses. CBRE anticipates strong interest from occupiers across both regional and national markets. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Plans have been submitted for a £51m industrial and logistics development in Northampton, with the proposed scheme set to bring forward a new generation of high-spec warehouse space in one of the UK’s most established employment locations. The project, known as Platform Brackmills, will be delivered on an 11.5-acre site and comprises three units ranging from approximately 46,400 sq ft to 76,500 sq ft. The scheme is being promoted by industrial and logistics specialist Erdgard Developments in partnership with the Richardson family business. If approved, the development will transform a previously underutilised site into a modern logistics hub designed to meet both current and future occupier demands. The units are expected to be available for occupation by the third quarter of 2027. Erdgard said the scheme reflects continued demand for well-located, high-quality industrial space, particularly in established logistics centres where connectivity and workforce access remain key drivers for occupiers. Director Gareth Williams commented that the proposals would bring the site back into productive use, delivering a high-quality employment scheme aligned with market expectations. He added that the location, already home to a number of major occupiers, would appeal to businesses seeking a modern working environment with strong transport links. Sustainability and performance sit at the core of the development’s design. The buildings are targeting BREEAM Excellent certification and will incorporate a range of low-carbon and energy-efficient technologies. These include air source heat pumps, LED lighting systems, electric vehicle charging infrastructure and rainwater recycling, alongside sustainable urban drainage systems to manage water effectively across the site. Constructed using a steel portal frame, the buildings will offer flexible internal layouts with column spacing designed to accommodate a wide range of racking and operational configurations. Enhanced cladding systems will also improve thermal performance, helping to reduce energy consumption and operational costs for occupiers. Erdgard’s approach goes beyond base build delivery, with the developer able to integrate bespoke occupier requirements into the specification. This includes tailored lighting, sprinkler systems, security solutions and other operational enhancements to support a variety of industrial and logistics uses. The scheme also reflects the company’s wider focus on sustainability and responsible development. Erdgard has committed to delivering its buildings as net zero carbon in construction, in line with UK Green Building Council guidance, while also embedding biodiversity and whole-life carbon considerations into its projects. As demand for high-quality, sustainable logistics space continues to grow, Platform Brackmills is positioned to play a key role in supporting occupiers seeking future-ready accommodation within a proven industrial location. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Contractor J. Smart & Co has joined forces with developer Manse LLP to bring forward a significant new industrial and logistics scheme at Eurocentral, with a planning application now submitted to North Lanarkshire Council. The proposed development, known as Eurocentral Gateway, will deliver more than 200,000 sq ft of modern industrial space within one of Scotland’s most established and strategically important distribution locations. The scheme will comprise two high-specification units of approximately 80,000 sq ft and 120,000 sq ft, designed to meet the evolving requirements of logistics and industrial occupiers. The development will place a strong emphasis on sustainability, operational efficiency and contemporary design standards. Eurocentral continues to attract strong demand due to its central location and excellent transport connectivity, making it a key hub for national distribution. The latest proposals aim to capitalise on this demand by delivering flexible, high-quality accommodation suited to a range of occupiers. J. Smart & Co’s involvement reflects its growing role not only as a contractor but also as a development partner, working alongside Manse LLP to deliver the scheme through a joint venture structure. Property consultants CBRE and Colliers have been appointed as joint letting agents and are already encouraging early engagement from prospective occupiers, particularly those seeking pre-let opportunities in a market where supply of prime industrial space remains constrained. Craig Semple, director at CBRE Scotland, said the scheme represents an important addition to the market, noting that demand for high-quality logistics accommodation across Scotland continues to outstrip supply. He added that established locations such as Eurocentral remain especially attractive to occupiers, and developments of this scale and specification are likely to generate strong interest. If approved, Eurocentral Gateway will further strengthen the region’s industrial offering, providing future-ready space aligned with occupier expectations around sustainability, efficiency and long-term performance. The project also highlights the continued momentum within Scotland’s industrial and logistics sector, as developers and contractors respond to sustained demand for well-located, high-specification space. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
PLP, a leading logistics developer and investment manager, has acquired a 65-acre development site with frontage to the M1 immediately adjacent to Junction 27 of the M1 at Sherwood Business Park, Nottingham. PLP Nottingham will deliver a three-unit scheme totalling 700,000 sq ft across three buildings, 69,000 sq ft, 172,000 sq ft and 459,000 sq ft. Construction will commence in June 2026 with completion targeted for Q3 2027. The site benefits from direct access to the M1 and the national motorway network, providing immediate connectivity to the industrial heartland of the UK and regional urban conurbations. Neil Dickinson Chief Investment Officer at PLP, commented:“PLP Nottingham is a prime example of PLP’s investment thesis; prime, immediately deliverable and perfectly tailored product to an undersupplied market and we look forward to delivering the completed scheme next year.” Hugh Chesterton, Development Director at PLP also commented:“PLP Nottingham will deliver three high quality buildings into one of the UK’s most undersupplied markets. The BREEAM Excellent scheme will be highly attractive to a range of national and regional tenants given its unique adjacency to Junction 27 of the M1 and the urban conurbations of the East Midlands. The scheme will create many new employment opportunities and will represent a substantial investment into the local economy and community.’’ PLP was advised by Avison Young, Savills and Oxalis acted for the landowner. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals