Commercial : Industrial News
Glencar Completes Martland Park Development in Wigan

Glencar Completes Martland Park Development in Wigan

A 101,805 sq ft BREEAM Excellent industrial and logistics facility delivered for Hillwood UK at Martland Park, Wigan. Glencar has completed works at Martland Park in Wigan, achieving practical completion on a 101,805 sq ft industrial and logistics unit delivered for Hillwood UK. The high-specification facility has been developed to

Read More »
Railpen secures planning consent for 145,000 sq ft Phase 2 of High Wycombe X following major pre-lets

Railpen secures planning consent for 145,000 sq ft Phase 2 of High Wycombe X following major pre-lets

Railpen, manager of the around £36bn railways pension scheme in the UK, has secured planning consent for Phase 2 of High Wycombe X alongside two major pre-lets, delivering another significant milestone in the continued growth of its market-leading X industrial and logistics portfolio. High Wycombe X, the 360,000 sq ft site which is located in the heart

Read More »
Hillwood lets Q40 at Quattro, Raunds, to GXP-Storage Ltd

Hillwood lets Q40 at Quattro, Raunds, to GXP-Storage Ltd

Hillwood, a leading global real estate investor and developer, has let Unit Q40 at Quattro, Raunds — 41,046 sq ft — to GXP-Storage Ltd (“GXPS”).  The lease was completed within six weeks of agreeing on Heads of Terms. Q40 will operate under the same regulatory-compliant quality system, facility, and equipment

Read More »
Railpen commences works on South Mimms X industrial development

Railpen commences works on South Mimms X industrial development

Railpen, manager of the UK’s around £36bn railways pension scheme, has started construction works at South Mimms X, a 122,820 sq ft exceptionally well-connected logistics and industrial development. With completion targeted for Spring 2027, it will be the latest addition to Railpen’s growing industrial portfolio, which comprises state-of-the-art, prime Grade

Read More »
Panattoni submits plans for 1 million sq ft at Panattoni Park Maidstone

Panattoni submits plans for 1 million sq ft at Panattoni Park Maidstone

Panattoni, the world’s largest privately owned developer of industrial real estate, has submitted a hybrid planning application for Panattoni Park Maidstone, a major new 1.04 million sq ft industrial and logistics development in Kent. The application includes detailed proposals for the first phase, comprising two units of 100,000 sq ft

Read More »
Latest Issue
Issue 344 : Sep 2026

Commercial : Industrial News

£340m Brackmills Logistics Park Plans Promise Major Jobs and Investment Boost for Northampton

£340m Brackmills Logistics Park Plans Promise Major Jobs and Investment Boost for Northampton

Plans have been submitted for a major new industrial and logistics development in Northampton that could transform the former Coca-Cola bottling site at Brackmills into up to 1.26 million sq ft of modern employment space. Royal London Asset Management Property is bringing forward the 54-acre Brackmills Logistics Park in partnership with commercial property developer Graftongate, which is acting as development manager. The brownfield site was acquired from Coca-Cola in September 2025 and represents Royal London Asset Management Property’s largest logistics development to date, with a reported gross development value of around £340 million. The outline proposals would allow for up to 118,500 sq m of industrial and logistics floorspace, suitable for storage and distribution, general industrial and other employment uses. Existing buildings would be demolished to make way for large-scale modern accommodation, alongside offices, service yards, parking and supporting infrastructure. Located within the established Brackmills Industrial Estate, the site benefits from connections to the A45, A428 and the wider motorway network, placing it within the UK’s strategically important logistics Golden Triangle. Economic forecasts submitted with the proposals indicate the scale of the potential impact. The development could support more than 1,200 net additional full-time equivalent jobs in West Northamptonshire once operational, while the construction phase itself is expected to generate substantial employment and supply chain activity. The planning submission estimates that construction could generate around £132.7 million for the local economy, with the completed development contributing approximately £51.6 million annually. Brownfield regeneration with ESG at its core Environmental performance is an important part of the Brackmills proposals. Rather than developing an undeveloped greenfield location, the project would regenerate a former industrial site that has been vacant since Coca-Cola closed its bottling facility in 2023. The emerging sustainability strategy includes energy-efficient building design, the potential integration of rooftop solar PV, electric vehicle charging infrastructure and sustainable drainage systems. Improvements for pedestrians and cyclists are also proposed, together with cycle parking and new landscaping. Biodiversity forms another component of the ESG strategy. The development is targeting at least 10% Biodiversity Net Gain, with ecological improvements delivered through a combination of new on-site landscaping and habitat creation locally. The project team brings together a substantial group of UK property, design and engineering specialists. Graftongate is development manager, while UMC Architects is among the consultants involved in the scheme. The wider team also includes Buro Four, Burrows Graham, Halligan Associates, Pegasus Group, BCA Design, Apex Transport Planning, Middlemarch, Fuller Long, Savills Earth and Trinity Property Consultants. APEX Real Estate Advisors and BNP Paribas Real Estate are involved on the property agency side. The redevelopment also reflects the changing technical requirements of the logistics sector. Modern distribution facilities increasingly need to accommodate automation, sophisticated building services, greater power requirements and more demanding environmental standards alongside traditional warehousing operations. For Northampton, the investment would reinforce Brackmills’ position as one of the region’s established industrial and distribution locations while bringing a large vacant brownfield property back into productive use. Subject to planning, construction could begin in 2027. With significant floorspace, strong motorway connectivity and an emphasis on more sustainable logistics buildings, Brackmills Logistics Park has the potential to become one of the most important new industrial developments in the East Midlands pipeline. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Read More »
McLaren Construction Midlands & North appointed to deliver Mountpark Hinckley Units 2 & 3

McLaren Construction Midlands & North appointed to deliver Mountpark Hinckley Units 2 & 3

McLaren Construction Midlands & North have been appointed by Mountpark to deliver Units 2 & 3 of its logistics development in Hinckley, a £48 million project that will provide two high-specification warehouse distribution units totaling 772,340 sq. ft. Located off Watling Street in Hinckley, the scheme comprises two single-storey industrial and logistics units, alongside associated transport hubs, office space, gatehouses, and extensive external works. Construction commenced in July 2026, with the steel frame scheduled to begin in September and completion forecast for spring 2027. It forms the second phase of the established Mountpark Hinckley logistics park, with the first phase and enabling infrastructure having already been completed. Unit 2 will provide approximately 514,100 sq. ft. of warehouse space with standard and Euro dock loading on both the east and west elevations, together with two transport hubs and 28,460 sq. ft. of office accommodation. Unit 3 will comprise approximately 258,248 sq. ft. of warehouse space with standard and Euro dock loading to the south elevation, one transport hub and 12,900 sq. ft. of office accommodation. McLaren Construction’s works also include the delivery of hardstanding, service yards, car parking, landscaping, mains services and drainage across the site, creating a high-quality industrial and logistics environment for occupiers. The project has been designed with sustainability at its core and is targeting a BREEAM Outstanding certification, alongside being WELL ready, with an embodied carbon target to support Mountpark’s commitment to delivering environmentally responsible logistics facilities. The wider development includes an extensive countryside walk with trim trail equipment and water features through existing and enhanced landscaping. As part of its social value ethos, McLaren Construction will work alongside the client and local stakeholders to develop a programme of community initiatives throughout the build. Gary Cramp, Managing Director at McLaren Construction Midlands & North, said: “We are pleased to have been appointed by Mountpark to deliver Phase 2, further strengthening our longstanding expertise in the industrial and logistics sector as a region and continuing our successful relationship with one of the UK’s leading developers. “The scheme will deliver two high-quality, sustainable warehouse facilities that are designed to meet the evolving needs of future occupiers while creating lasting benefits for the local community.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Read More »
Steelwork Underway at 284,575 sq. ft Hillwood Park Luton as Development Takes Shape

Steelwork Underway at 284,575 sq. ft Hillwood Park Luton as Development Takes Shape

Glencar and Hillwood have marked a major construction milestone at Hillwood Park Luton, with structural steelwork now underway across the 284,575 sq. ft industrial and logistics development. Structural steelwork is now progressing across the 16-acre development, marking the latest major phase of construction at Hillwood Park Luton. The milestone was marked with a steel signing on site, bringing together representatives from Hillwood, Glencar and the wider project team, including KAM Project Consultants, UMC Architects and Burrows Graham. Following the completion of enabling works, earthworks, groundworks and essential site infrastructure, structural steelwork is now well underway, with the frames beginning to define the scale and form of the development. Located within the established Sundon Park Industrial Estate, Hillwood Park Luton will deliver eight Grade A industrial and logistics units totalling 284,575 sq ft, with individual units ranging from 14,000 to 80,000 sq ft. The development is being delivered speculatively to provide flexible accommodation for manufacturing, distribution and e-commerce occupiers and forms an important part of Hillwood’s expanding UK development pipeline. The scheme is targeting BREEAM Excellent and EPC A ratings, with sustainability and wellbeing measures incorporated throughout the development to support operational efficiency and long-term occupier requirements. Hillwood Park Luton represents the third consecutive project between Hillwood and Glencar, following the successful delivery of the 335,000 sq ft Crewe 335 development and the 101,860 sq ft Martland Park scheme in Wigan. Peter Goodman, Managing Director at Glencar, said: “The start of structural steelwork marks a significant stage in the delivery of Hillwood Park Luton, with the scale and form of the development now becoming increasingly visible across the site. “A significant amount of work has gone into reaching this stage, from our early involvement during pre-construction through to the groundworks and infrastructure delivered over recent months. The focus for our project team is now on maintaining that momentum as we progress the superstructure and subsequent phases of construction. “As our third scheme with Hillwood, the project also demonstrates the strength of the working relationship between our teams and the benefits that continuity and early collaboration can bring to delivery.” Greg Dalton, Development Director at Hillwood, said: “With steelwork now beginning to rise across Hillwood Park Luton, the scale of the development is becoming increasingly apparent. This milestone reflects the progress being made by Glencar and the wider project team. The development will bring forward eight high-quality, sustainable industrial and logistics units in an established and well-connected location, adding further Grade A accommodation to our growing UK portfolio. We look forward to seeing the scheme continue to take shape as we move towards completion.” Hillwood Park Luton is situated northwest of Luton, with access to Junction 11A of the M1 and connections to the A5 and A6. London Luton Airport is less than seven miles from the development, with Leagrave railway station approximately 1.2 miles away. Practical completion remains targeted for Q1 2027. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Read More »
Planning approved for initial 55,500 sq m industrial and logistics scheme in West Lothian

Planning approved for initial 55,500 sq m industrial and logistics scheme in West Lothian

Balmoral International Land UK Ltd has received planning consent from West Lothian Council for a major new best-in-class industrial and logistics development at Arches Business Park in Broxburn. The decision marks an important step forward for the delivery of Arches Business Park, a strategically located development site extending to an initial 55,500 sq m (597,000 sq ft) on the eastern edge of East Mains Industrial Estate.   The planning permission allows for development of the first phase site into industrial, storage and distribution accommodation. Construction is the initial phase of road upgrades will commence immediately. Located adjacent to the A89 and within close proximity of the Newbridge Interchange, Edinburgh Airport and Scotland’s central motorway network, Arches Business Park is one of the most significant future industrial and logistics development opportunities in the Central Belt market. The wider scheme offers flexibility for a range of occupier requirements, with design-and-build opportunities suited to industrial, manufacturing, distribution and logistics operations of varying scales. Detailed planning permission has also been granted for a new distributor road and signalled junction, providing the infrastructure needed to unlock the future development of the site, with works anticipated to commence early next year. With vacancy along the M8 corridor remaining at around 2.50%, the planning decision is expected to generate early occupier interest. CBRE and JLL, acting jointly as leasing agents, are actively engaging with businesses seeking pre-let opportunities ahead of the next phase of development. Guy Thorley, Development Director at Balmoral International Land, said: “Securing planning permission for Arches Business Park is a defining milestone for the project and a major vote of confidence in Scotland’s industrial and logistics market. “Developments of this scale are critical if Scotland is to meet future business demand, attract inward investment and support long-term economic growth. Arches Business Park will become one of the country’s premier industrial and logistics destinations, creating new jobs, attracting investment and delivering the high-quality employment space the market urgently needs. “We look forward to working alongside CBRE and JLL to bring the development forward and realise that ambition.” Bryce Stewart, Senior Director at CBRE, said: “This consent brings forward one of the most significant industrial and logistics opportunities in Scotland at a time when occupier demand continues to outstrip supply. “There is a clear shortage of modern, development-ready industrial space across the Central Belt, particularly for businesses looking to expand or relocate. Opportunities of this scale are exceptionally rare, and we’re already seeing strong interest from occupiers ahead of the development being brought to market.” Rhys Davies, Director of JLL’s Industrial & Logistics team said: “The timing of this consent couldn’t be better. UK industrial take-up reached 12.9 million sq ft in the first half of 2026, driven primarily by logistics and retail operators seeking high-quality, immediately available space. “There’s a clear trend toward modern, energy-efficient facilities that meet occupiers’ operational and sustainability requirements. Arches Business Park offers the opportunity to deliver exactly that type of accommodation in a market where such opportunities are increasingly scarce. “With new speculative construction anticipated to slow across the UK later this year, the strategic importance of consented, deliverable sites like this is significant. Arches Business Park provides a strategic asset capable of meeting future demand and delivering essential employment space for the West Lothian economy in one of Scotland’s most accessible industrial locations.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Read More »
Major logistics development site brought to market along Scotland’s strategic M8 corridor

Major logistics development site brought to market along Scotland’s strategic M8 corridor

Global real estate adviser CBRE has been appointed by Castlebrooke to bring Prime4Eight to market, a four-unit industrial and logistics development, totalling 377,200 sq ft, which is strategically positioned along Scotland’s key M8 corridor between Glasgow and Edinburgh.  Prime4Eight has planning consent for four Grade A industrial and logistics units, ranging in size from 77,200 sq ft to 150,300 sq ft, providing occupiers with a rare opportunity to secure high-quality warehouse accommodation in one of the country’s most constrained logistics markets.   Located in the heart of Scotland’s established logistics region, the development benefits from excellent connectivity, with direct access to the M8 via Junctions 4 and 5, providing strong links across Scotland and to the North of England via the M74 and M6.  The surrounding area has become one of Scotland’s most established logistics destinations, with Junction 4 accommodating major occupiers including Aldi, Schuh and GXO across approximately 2.2 million sq ft of warehouse space. Complementing this, the nearby 2 million sq ft Tesco Distribution Centre at Junction 5 further reinforces the strength of the location as a premier distribution hub.  Prime4Eight is uniquely positioned to accommodate both large-scale and big-box occupier requirements and represents one of the only opportunities along the M8 corridor capable of delivering modern warehouse space at scale within relatively short timescales.  At the time of reporting, there is zero grade A stock under construction above 50,000 sq ft across the Central Belt, therefore there is a clear opportunity for Prime4Eight to meet the potential demand in this size range.   The units will be delivered to an institutional-grade specification, providing best-in-class distribution accommodation. The scheme will also incorporate strong ESG credentials, aligning with the evolving sustainability requirements of modern occupiers and investors.   The construction of unit 1, circa 77,200 sq ft, is anticipated to start in Q3 2026 and will be available for occupation from Q3 2027. The remaining units will be available for pre-let discussions and further speculative development may commence following the success of phase one.    Craig Semple, Director at CBRE, said: “Prime4Eight represents one of the most significant industrial and logistics opportunities currently available in Scotland. Schemes that are capable of accommodating large-scale occupiers, while offering immediate access to the M8 and a best-in-class specification, is extremely rare.   “Occupier demand continues to be driven by the need for high-quality, sustainable logistics space in well-connected locations, and Prime4Eight is exceptionally well placed to meet that requirement. With occupation anticipated from next year, and the industrial vacancy rate along the M8 corridor between Glasgow and Edinburgh currently hovering at a record-low of circa 2.5%, we’re looking forward to engaging with occupiers seeking a future-proof solution in one of Scotland’s most established logistics locations.”  A spokesperson for Castlebrooke said: “Prime4Eight has been designed to meet the evolving needs of modern logistics occupiers, combining a strategic location with high-quality, sustainable accommodation in one of Scotland’s most established distribution corridors.  “Bringing the scheme to market marks an important milestone, and we are pleased to be working with CBRE as we introduce this opportunity to occupiers. We are confident that Prime4Eight will attract significant interest from businesses looking for high-quality logistics space that supports their long-term operational and sustainability ambitions.”  Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Read More »
Glencar Completes Martland Park Development in Wigan

Glencar Completes Martland Park Development in Wigan

A 101,805 sq ft BREEAM Excellent industrial and logistics facility delivered for Hillwood UK at Martland Park, Wigan. Glencar has completed works at Martland Park in Wigan, achieving practical completion on a 101,805 sq ft industrial and logistics unit delivered for Hillwood UK. The high-specification facility has been developed to meet the requirements of modern industrial and logistics occupiers, with a strong focus on sustainability, operational efficiency, and long-term performance. The scheme has achieved a BREEAM Excellent rating, reflecting its environmental credentials. The completed development features a 12-metre haunch height, first-floor office accommodation with Cat A fit-out, and a range of sustainability measures including photovoltaic panels, electric vehicle charging points, and cycle facilities. Works also included comprehensive groundworks, attenuation, and drainage infrastructure to support the site. Glencar worked closely with the wider project team throughout delivery, including Goodrich Consulting LLP, UMC Architects, Baynham Meikle, and Cundall, alongside its extended supply chain. The completed building provides high-quality, future-ready industrial space, supporting employment and inward investment in the Wigan area and setting a new benchmark for sustainable industrial and logistics development at Martland Park. This marks Glencar’s second completed project with Hillwood UK, further strengthening our partnership within the industrial and logistics sector. Building on this momentum, Glencar has also recently begun work on a third scheme with Hillwood,  Hillwood Park in Luton. Tom Kearsley, North Regional Director at Glencar, commented: “The completion of Martland Park is a strong example of what can be achieved through close collaboration with a committed client and consultant team. We are proud to have delivered a high-quality, sustainable facility for Hillwood UK that meets the demands of modern industrial and logistics occupiers.” Mark Wright, Vice President at Hillwood UK, added: “We are very pleased with the completed building at Martland Park and would like to thank Glencar and the wider project team for delivering a high-quality facility to a strong specification. The development reflects our commitment to providing sustainable, well-designed industrial and logistics space and represents an excellent addition to our portfolio in the North West.” Project Team Client: Hillwood UKConsulting Engineer: Goodrich Consulting LLPArchitect: UMC ArchitectsEngineer: Baynham Meikle Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Read More »
Railpen secures planning consent for 145,000 sq ft Phase 2 of High Wycombe X following major pre-lets

Railpen secures planning consent for 145,000 sq ft Phase 2 of High Wycombe X following major pre-lets

Railpen, manager of the around £36bn railways pension scheme in the UK, has secured planning consent for Phase 2 of High Wycombe X alongside two major pre-lets, delivering another significant milestone in the continued growth of its market-leading X industrial and logistics portfolio. High Wycombe X, the 360,000 sq ft site which is located in the heart of Cressex Business Park, has secured planning consent to begin works on Phase 2. The second phase will deliver approximately 145,000 sq ft of high-quality, sustainable industrial and logistics space across five units, building on the success of the first phase, which completed last year, and further strengthening Railpen’s presence in one of the South East’s most sought-after logistics locations. Demonstrating strong occupier demand, Railpen has already secured two significant pre-lets across the development, totalling 73,900 sq ft. Booker, the UK food wholesaler, has committed to 47,300 sq ft, while Activeon, the indoor trampoline operator, will occupy 25,600 sq ft. Both occupiers have signed 20-year leases, reflecting the long-term appeal of the redevelopment and the quality of the space being delivered. The scheme is due to complete in Q2 2027. Developed in partnership with Wrenbridge, High Wycombe X forms part of Railpen’s growing X portfolio, an industry-first branded collection of small and medium-sized industrial and logistics developments that share a consistent set of market leading characters. Each development has been designed to deliver a best-in-class specification, with strong amenities, exceptional sustainability credentials, and spaces that are fit for the evolving needs of occupiers across a plethora of sectors.  The portfolio is strategically located around the M25 and other key transport corridors, providing direct access to London and the wider UK, while maintaining close proximity to residential areas and end consumers. Phase 2 continues this approach, targeting BREEAM Excellent certification, EPC A+ ratings and net zero carbon in construction, reinforcing Railpen’s commitment to delivering future-ready industrial developments that meet both occupier demand and ambitious sustainability standards. Alastair Dawson, UK Industrial – Sector Lead at Railpen, commented: “The industrial and logistics sector continues to present a very compelling long-term investment opportunity, one which is underpinned by structural demand driven by e-commerce growth and the continued modernisation of UK supply chains. The demand for high-quality space continues to outstrip supply, and the strong pre-letting interest we’ve secured demonstrates that occupiers increasingly value developments that combine exceptional sustainability credentials, outstanding connectivity, and spaces designed around modern needs. “High Wycombe X is a prime example of our strategy in action – we’re focused on creating high-quality assets that deliver lasting value for both our members and our occupiers, and High Wycombe X is transforming a former industrial estate into a future-ready logistics hub.” Tim McClure, UK Managing Director, Activeon, said: “We’re delighted to be joining High Wycombe X as part of our continued growth. Having been part of the High Wycombe community for over 12 years, this new site represents our long-term commitment to the town and our confidence in its future. High Wycombe X provides the ideal space for our operations, with excellent connectivity, high-quality facilities and strong sustainability credentials that align with our ambitions. Signing this lease reflects our confidence in both the development and the opportunity it presents, and we’re looking forward to continuing to serve families in High Wycombe from our new home.” Max Russell, Associate Director at Wrenbridge, also added: “This is a very exciting time for the High Wycombe market, and an opportune moment to receive planning consent. We’re bringing forward the remaining units on a speculative basis, confident that this level of occupier interest will carry through into this phase and future phases. Delivery of Phase 2 is scheduled for a summer 2027 completion with units ranging from 19,429 to 28,460 sq ft.” Booker and Activeon will join RH Amar, one of the UK’s leading full-service distributors and growth partners for ambient grocery products, within High Wycombe X. The final stage of the development, Phase 3, has planning in for a 120,000 sq ft unit. The space is currently being marketed on a pre-let or build-to-suit basis, providing flexibility to meet the requirements of a range of occupiers. Other assets within Railpen’s X portfolio include Dartford X, Waltham X, and South Mimms X, with the latter due to start construction on site in the coming months. Savills, Adroit Real Estate and Duncan Bailey Kennedy are the joint agents representing High Wycombe X. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Read More »
Hillwood lets Q40 at Quattro, Raunds, to GXP-Storage Ltd

Hillwood lets Q40 at Quattro, Raunds, to GXP-Storage Ltd

Hillwood, a leading global real estate investor and developer, has let Unit Q40 at Quattro, Raunds — 41,046 sq ft — to GXP-Storage Ltd (“GXPS”).  The lease was completed within six weeks of agreeing on Heads of Terms. Q40 will operate under the same regulatory-compliant quality system, facility, and equipment standards, and GXP-Guardian® platform as other GXPS facilities in the US, giving clients a single view of their materials across every storage environment, from controlled ambient to cryogenic.  It places scalable, restricted-access storage capacity within reach of the UK’s principal life sciences clusters.  Fit-out is underway, with the facility commissioned and operational by November 2026. Quattro comprises four speculatively built “mid-box” units from 10,867 to 117,552 sq ft, completed in March 2026.  The letting follows 80,747 sq ft to furniture retailer Nick Scali in June 2026, meaning two of the scheme’s four units are now let.  These buildings are BREEAM “Excellent” certified and EPC “A” rated, and adjoin the A45, with links to the Midlands and, via the A14, the East of England. “Two lettings agreed within four months of practical completion says a great deal about occupier demand for well-specified mid-box space on the A45 corridor, as well as sentiment we’re seeing nationally.  We’re delighted to have worked closely with GXPS to secure a timely transaction that satisfies their operational requirements” said Greg Dalton, Vice President, Hillwood UK. “Location, quality, and Hillwood’s approval for a comprehensive fit-out were all critical to commissioning our third restricted-access facility in the UK — and Hillwood delivered on every count,” said Jeff Johnson, Director, GXP-Storage Ltd.  “Q40 extends our transatlantic network so clients can work with one partner and one consolidated view of their material on both sides of the Atlantic.” Hillwood UK is represented by Bidwells and M1 Agency as retained joint letting agents. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Read More »
Railpen commences works on South Mimms X industrial development

Railpen commences works on South Mimms X industrial development

Railpen, manager of the UK’s around £36bn railways pension scheme, has started construction works at South Mimms X, a 122,820 sq ft exceptionally well-connected logistics and industrial development. With completion targeted for Spring 2027, it will be the latest addition to Railpen’s growing industrial portfolio, which comprises state-of-the-art, prime Grade A industrial and logistics facilities located strategically around the M25.  Located at the intersection of the A1(M) and M25, adjacent to South Mimms Services, South Mimms X marks Railpen’s latest milestone in its investment into the logistics and industrial sector, developed in partnership with Wrenbridge. Positioned just 14.5 miles from central London, the 122,820 sq ft scheme will offer a market-leading specification in an unrivalled location, incorporating a 68m secure gated yard. Designed to target a wide range of operators, the facility will also feature 13 dock loading doors, two Euro dock doors, and two level access doors. It will be well-positioned to support the transition to EV fleets, with 18 active EV charging spaces, alongside 98 car parking spaces.  Sustainability is embedded throughout the design, which is targeting net-zero carbon, as well as BREEAM Outstanding and EPC A+ ratings. The scheme will also deliver 2.5 acres of landscaped amenity space, achieving a 30% biodiversity net gain through features including on-site wildlife boxes and an urban orchard. Once complete, the scheme will benefit from the adjacent high-quality, people-focused amenities to support occupier wellbeing and productivity. Alastair Dawson, UK Industrial Sector Lead at Railpen, commented: “South Mimms X reflects Railpen’s ongoing commitment to producing best-in-class developments that support local economies and enhance surrounding communities. The site is exceptionally well located on the M25, with access to the entirety of Greater London within 90 minutes. With well-connected, high-quality industrial space in increasingly short supply, this scheme has been designed to stand out. Building on our established track record and Wrenbridge’s extensive expertise, South Mimms X is well placed to set a new benchmark for logistics in the South East.” Will Jarman, Associate Director at Wrenbridge, added: “Railpen’s X portfolio is becoming a clear example in the industrial and logistics sector of how a landlord can demonstrate ongoing commitment to delivering best-in-class facilities, and one that goes above and beyond the wants, needs, and expectations of occupiers and their employees. There is a clear demand for accessible industrial space in this location, and it is great to be partnering with Railpen once again to deliver another high-quality scheme.” South Mimms X is just one of the many assets included in Railpen’s property portfolio, which currently has over 3 million sq ft of space under construction or with planning consent, with a forecast construction cost in excess of £500 million by the end of 2030. The development will join Railpen’s expanding ‘X’ branded portfolio of industrial sites, alongside Dartford X, Waltham X and High Wycombe X. Each development is strategically located and designed to meet occupier demand for best-in-class, highly sustainable industrial space. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Read More »
Panattoni submits plans for 1 million sq ft at Panattoni Park Maidstone

Panattoni submits plans for 1 million sq ft at Panattoni Park Maidstone

Panattoni, the world’s largest privately owned developer of industrial real estate, has submitted a hybrid planning application for Panattoni Park Maidstone, a major new 1.04 million sq ft industrial and logistics development in Kent. The application includes detailed proposals for the first phase, comprising two units of 100,000 sq ft and 150,000 sq ft. Outline permission is being sought for the second phase, which will provide customers with opportunities to secure flexible built-to-suit facilities tailored to their operational requirements. The 70-acre site at Lenham is a former manufacturing site being brought back into productive use. It is strategically located close to the A20 and M20, providing strong connections to London, the M25, and key ports serving the UK and continental Europe. The application follows an extensive programme of local consultation. More than 150 people attended a public exhibition in Lenham earlier this year, and feedback showed strong support for the proposals: nearly 85% of respondents backed redeveloping the site for employment use, and 98.5% agreed that redeveloping brownfield land was preferable to building on greenfield. The development will target BREEAM ‘Excellent’ and EPC A+ ratings, with buildings designed to support modern logistics, manufacturing, and distribution operations. Alongside the commercial floorspace, the scheme will deliver around 5km of new and improved roads, cycleways and footpaths, together with landscaping and enhanced public access across the site. Panattoni’s nearby scheme at Aylesford as evidence of the economic potential of industrial and logistics developments. Also a redeveloped Kent brownfield site, Panattoni Park Aylesford is now fully occupied and contributes an estimated £180 million a year to the local economy, supporting thousands of jobs. David McGougan, Senior Development Director for the South East at Panattoni, said: “This is a significant planning application that will unlock more than one million square feet of high-quality industrial and logistics space in a market where modern supply remains constrained. “The combination of immediately available units and flexible built-to-suit opportunities will allow us to respond to a broad range of customer requirements. Panattoni Park Maidstone is exceptionally well located for businesses serving London, the South East, and European markets.” Colliers, CBRE, and Vail Williams are the retained agents for Panattoni Park Maidstone. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Read More »