A leading national retailer has doubled its footprint at Prologis Park Marston Gate, securing a new national distribution centre to support its continued growth. The move will sustain hundreds of jobs locally in Central Bedfordshire, positioning the business to handle increasing order volumes and is expected to be fully operational for peak trading in Q4. The new facility, DC2, will bring together the retailer’s national and regional distribution operations, alongside new office space and a dedicated training facility. Once complete, it will serve as a technology-enabled hub for storage, fulfilment and customer service. Prior to taking occupation, Prologis undertook a comprehensive refurbishment of DC2, including a full renewal of the office space and sustainability-focused upgrades to achieve an EPC A rating. Through Prologis Essentials, the unit will be fitted out with wide-aisle racking and energy-efficient LED lighting, ensuring the space is ready for efficient, sustainable operations. A bespoke skills academy will also be created on site, providing colleagues with opportunities to develop expertise in logistics operations and customer service. By remaining at Marston Gate, the retailer is able to retain its experienced workforce while benefiting from the park’s amenities, including a café, landscaped green spaces and walking routes. Prologis facilitated the expansion through a seamless Prologis-to-Prologis transaction, demonstrating its commitment to helping customers grow within sustainable, high-quality logistics spaces. Gillian Scarth, Leasing Director, Prologis UK: “This expansion at Marston Gate demonstrates how this well-located park can support a growing retailer whilst minimising operational disruption. By refurbishing DC2 to modern, energy-efficient standards and streamlining the move, we’re enabling our customer to scale sustainably and keep its talent exactly where it belongs – here in Central Bedfordshire.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Berkeley Group has appointed Stoford as development manager to lead the delivery of MK East, a prime logistics development site off Junction 14 of the southern M1 motorway near Milton Keynes. The indicative masterplan envisages the development of up to c.4 million sq ft of industrial/logistics accommodation on a 200-acre site, with capacity for a wide range of buildings from 40,000 to 1.5 million sq ft. Once complete MK East will support up to 7,150 permanent jobs in the heart of the government’s Oxford-Cambridge Growth Corridor. Development plots are available for sale, with units offered on flexible leasehold or freehold design-and-build terms, giving occupiers the ability to tailor space to their requirements. MK East has outline planning consent and is fully serviced with estate roads, drainage, utilities, and 21 MVA of secured power. All buildings are targeted to achieve BREEAM Excellent and EPC A+, and the scheme will feature extensive green and recreational spaces, including walking and cycling paths. Subject to reserved matters approval, units at MK East are expected to be delivered from Q3 2027 onwards. CBRE has been appointed as marketing agent for the scheme. Dan Gallagher, Joint Managing Director at Stoford, said: “We are pleased to be working with Berkeley Group to deliver an outstanding logistics development at the heart of the UK’s supply chain network. MK East is a flexible, sustainable development of significant scale, and with planning and infrastructure already in place, we’re already engaging with occupiers to bring forward the first phase of development.” Stephen Kirwan, Managing Director of St Joseph, part of Berkeley Group, said: “Our shared vision for MK East is to create a sustainable, high-quality employment destination that meets the needs of both local and national businesses, driving long-term economic growth and bringing thousands of jobs to Milton Keynes.” MK East forms part of Berkeley Group’s wider Milton Keynes East masterplan. The logistic hub is located on the southern boundary of the site, close to the M1, and is a key part of Milton Keynes City Council’s development framework. The wider masterplan area to the north will be separated from the logistics hub with a landscape buffer. It has outline planning consent for a new neighbourhood of up to 4,600 new homes, 99 hectares of green space and a mix of community facilities. For more information on MK East logistics, please visit https://mkeast.com/ or contact agents CBRE – Alex Scofield, Olivia Newport and Hannah Metcalfe. For more information on the wider Milton Keynes East Masterplan, please contact MKE@redwoodcomms.co.uk   Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

More than 71,000 sq ft of refurbished industrial space in St Helens due to hit pipeline Real estate advisor, CBRE has been jointly instructed alongside LM6 on a new warehouse scheme at Eurolink 7 in St Helens.  The development by Tandem Investments will deliver 71,000 sq of fully refurbished industrial units with Unit 4 completed and the remaining units due to complete in the New Year. The former manufacturing facility, located close to J7 of the M62 at St Helens, will be comprehensively refurbished to a high standard to deliver a multi-let industrial site with 6 distinct units ranging from 14,850 sq ft to 37,350 sq ft. Availability for potential occupiers includes Unit 1, (37,350 sq ft) with up to 9m eaves; Unit 3 (14,850 sq ft) and Unit 4 (19,020 sq ft).  Each unit will benefit from large dedicated service yards.  In addition, Units 1 and 4 have the potential to be let with an open storage area extending to 0.68 acres. Tandem has already secured curtain maker and retailer RB Furnishings on the first unit (5) on site, comprising 8,850 sq ft. Darren Hill, Director, CBRE said: “Eurolink 7 will provide for some much needed high quality, second hand refurbished industrial/warehouse space in a market where we are seeing extremely constrained supply in the sub 50,000 sq ft bracket.  In addition to the quality of the specification, the units will benefit from large dedicated service yards, with the ability to acquire an additional 0.68 acres of external storage if required.  This represents a key USP for occupiers and is a major attribute in addition to the strategic location within minutes of Jn 7 of the M62” CBRE have been appointed jointly alongside Tony O’Keefe at LM6. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Verdion has joined forces with Legal & General’s Industrial Property Investment Fund (IPIF) to secure a prime urban logistics development site in the West Thamesmead Opportunity Area, marking the first collaboration between the two organisations. The 2.6-acre brownfield plot on Nathan Way, within the West Thamesmead/Plumstead Industrial Area and designated Strategic Industrial Location, has a gross development value of £30m. Verdion will lead the development, while L&G will take ownership of the completed asset. Plans are in place for a speculative urban logistics scheme delivering 78,987 sq ft of new industrial floorspace across six small and mid-box units, ranging from 7,500 sq ft to 18,000 sq ft. The scheme is targeting BREEAM Excellent and A-plus energy performance certification, with a strong emphasis on whole-life carbon reduction, energy efficiency, biodiversity enhancements and responsible supply chain practices. Mark Garrity, UK development director at Verdion, said the acquisition represented an important milestone in the company’s UK strategy. He highlighted the site’s strong Thamesmead location and the increasing appeal of inner South East London for logistics operators. Garrity added that the masterplan had been shaped to support a wide variety of occupiers, anticipating demand from both businesses displaced by redevelopment elsewhere in London and new entrants drawn by improved transport links. Verdion expects the scheme to complete in the second quarter of 2027. Matt Lilley, assistant fund manager of IPIF and head of industrial development strategies at L&G, said the Nathan Way acquisition aligned with their strategy of investing in fast-growing industrial sub-sectors such as urban logistics. He emphasised the opportunity to embed net-zero-carbon principles from the outset, helping to create a future-proofed, high-quality asset in an undersupplied London market. The partnership signals a strong commitment to sustainable industrial growth and further strengthens the area’s role as a key logistics location in the capital. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Glencar has been appointed by Wilson Bowden Developments to deliver the first major project at Atom Valley, with work now under way on the new Sustainable Materials and Manufacturing Centre (SMMC) in Rochdale. The 43,500 sq ft facility will provide a cutting-edge environment for collaboration, research and development in sustainable materials and advanced manufacturing. Designed as a flexible, innovation-focused space, the centre will bring together businesses, academics and technology partners under one roof to accelerate low-carbon solutions and next-generation production techniques. Crucially, the SMMC is intended to act as a catalyst for a wider innovation cluster across the Atom Valley site, supporting high-value jobs, investment and long-term industrial growth in the region. The facility will form an important part of the evolving Kingsway Business Park offer, complementing existing occupiers and strengthening the area’s reputation as a hub for advanced industry. Tom Kearsley, North Regional Director at Glencar, said the business was pleased to be working once again with Wilson Bowden and the wider project team to deliver what he described as a unique, forward-looking facility. He highlighted the opportunity to support “future-facing innovation” by creating a building that encourages collaboration between different disciplines and sectors. Henry Henson, Development Manager at Wilson Bowden Developments, described the start of construction as a landmark moment for the scheme. He said the SMMC would play a central role in the continuing success story at Kingsway Business Park and that the project team was looking forward to turning the vision into reality on site. The Sustainable Materials and Manufacturing Centre is scheduled for completion in September 2026, marking an important early milestone in the development of Atom Valley as a nationally significant innovation location. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Construction is advancing at pace at Panattoni Park in Swindon, with McLaren Construction (Midlands & North) firmly on track to deliver the landmark 545,000 sq. ft. logistics and industrial scheme within the 39-week programme. McLaren is delivering the speculative design and build contract on behalf of Panattoni, supported by UMC Architects, KAM Project Consultants, BWB Consulting and Construction CDM Services. The project continues to hit key milestones of the 39-construction week schedule, and the steel frame is now complete, the internal roof largely finished, windows are being installed, and cladding installation is progressing steadily. Roofing works are well advanced with lining sheets due for completion, and externally, concrete slab works are underway, the multi-story car park deck is poured, kerbs are being installed, alongside power and water service installations. The office area is fully glazed and cladding of the striking link bridge – connecting the main building to the multi-storey car park – is now taking place. First-fix mechanical and electrical services have begun within the warehouse, and internal finishes and the office fit-out is progressing well. On completion, the development will offer premier logistics space with two storeys of high-spec office accommodation and a decked car park. The scheme is targeting BREEAM ‘Outstanding’ and EPC A+/A ratings, with a commitment to achieving net zero upfront carbon emissions. Historically, the site was used as brownfield land before being an airfield during World War II, and then later it was redeveloped for car manufacturing by Honda in the late 20th century. This regeneration is part of Panattoni’s wider plan to bring new life and jobs to the area following the closure of Honda’s operations in 2021. Luke Arnold, Regional Director at McLaren Midlands & North, said: “We’re proud to be delivering this project at pace and to such a high standard. This is a flagship scheme, not only for Panattoni but for the wider region, and our team is focused on maintaining momentum right through to completion in early 2026.” Panattoni Park Swindon is poised to deliver high-quality industrial space in a location with excellent connectivity and legacy infrastructure, further strengthening Swindon’s position as a key logistics hub in the South West. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Real estate development and investment firm, Epta Development Corporation (“EDC”), and its development partner, Stoford, have commenced construction of a new Marks & Spencer (“M&S”) logistics facility at Axis Works, Bristol, on behalf of LondonMetric Property (“LondonMetric”). The 390,000 sq ft high specification warehouse is being forward funded by LondonMetric for £74 million and pre-let to M&S on a 20-year lease, forming part of the retailer’s investment in its food supply chain. Designed to the highest sustainability standards, the building will target BREEAM Excellent, EPC A, and low-carbon construction, incorporating sustainable features to meet the requirements of all parties involved in the construction. Winvic has been appointed main contractor and completion of the new unit is scheduled for summer 2026. Axis Works is a 101-acre site that lies in a strategically important location at Central Park, South Gloucestershire, within the Avonmouth-Severnside Enterprise Area. The scheme has hybrid consent to deliver c.2 million sq ft of new industrial, warehouse and logistics space.  Since acquiring the site in 2020, EDC has overseen extensive pre development works, including asset recovery and demolition of a former pharmaceutical manufacturing facility, site raising, utilities media servicing, and new drainage infrastructure. Chris Tsakumis, Principal at EDC, said: “Commencement of vertical construction at Axis Works marks a noteworthy milestone for our inaugural investment into the UK.  M&S entrusting our team to deliver a critical piece of supply chain infrastructure for the business is equally rewarding, and is further testament to what Avonmouth offers as a strategically placed distribution hub and highly attractive locale for major capital investment.  Delivering this building for M&S and LondonMetric, two widely respected and admired British companies, represents a seminal moment for us and our development partner Stoford at Axis Works.” Dan Gallagher, Joint Managing Director, Stoford, added: “Breaking ground at Axis Works is the result of more than two years of close collaboration with EDC. The project demonstrates confidence in Avonmouth as one of the UK’s most important distribution locations and will provide LondonMetric and M&S with a facility that meets the highest standards of design and sustainability.”Mark Stirling, Property Director of LondonMetric, commented: “We are delighted that construction has commenced on this high quality logistics warehouse for M&S who remain a key partner across our portfolio. This is one of several developments where we continue to work closely together to help grow their best in class food offering. “We are also very pleased to be working in partnership with EDC and Stoford to deliver such a high quality development.” Sarah Stocken, Food Logistics Project Manager at M&S Food, commented: “This distribution centre will play a key role in modernising our supply chain to increase capacity in our network. Not only will it help us deliver for our customers but also provide a brilliant working environment for colleagues when it opens next year. We look forward to seeing work progress onsite, led by EDC and Stoford.” Councillor Ian Boulton, Co-leader of South Gloucestershire Council, said: “This major investment by M&S, supported by EDC and Stoford, is another clear sign of confidence in South Gloucestershire as a place to do business. Developments like this bring high-quality jobs, boost our local economy, and demonstrate the strength of Avonmouth and Severnside as a key logistics hub for the South West and the UK.” For more information, please visit https://axis-works.com/ or contact agents Philip Cranstone or Adam McMillan at CBRE, and Russell Crofts or Charles Binks at Knight Frank. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

A major new urban logistics scheme has secured planning in Wolverton, Milton Keynes, paving the way for 200,000 sq ft of Grade A space designed to support jobs, growth and greener operations. The joint venture between Chancerygate and CBRE Investment Management will deliver Axis Park on Blackhill Drive, within the established Wolverton Mill employment area. The 10.6-acre development will comprise eight leasehold units ranging from 6,100 sq ft to 67,700 sq ft, offering flexibility for local and regional occupiers. Construction is scheduled to start in November, with the first businesses expected to move in from the third quarter of next year. The location is already home to a strong cluster of manufacturers and logistics operators, including CTDI, Aston Martin, API Technologies and Funrise International. Sustainability sits at the heart of the plans. All buildings will target BREEAM Outstanding certification and a minimum EPC A+ rating, supported by features such as electric vehicle charging points, rooftop solar generation and high-performance building materials to reduce operational carbon. The specification aims to lower running costs while enhancing resilience and compliance for occupiers facing tightening ESG requirements. Chancerygate senior development director, George Dickens, said the scheme responds directly to local market needs. We are very pleased to be able to bring forward Axis Park in partnership with CBRE IM as part of our joint venture to deliver much-needed sustainable urban logistics space throughout the UK. There is strong demand in Milton Keynes for high-specification Grade A accommodation close to key transport links. Our development will meet this demand and provide a thriving long-term economic asset for the area which we estimate could create hundreds of jobs. Founded in 1995, Chancerygate is the UK’s largest urban logistics developer and asset manager, and the only one operating nationwide. The business currently has around 1.41 million sq ft under construction or ready for development across 11 sites, from Edinburgh to Croydon. Tom James, head of UK transactions at CBRE IM, said the investment aligns with the firm’s long-term strategy. This project represents a strategic investment into multi-let urban logistics in a high-demand, well-connected area, offering modern, sustainable space that aligns with our commitment to deliver long-term value creation for our investors. Axis Park will provide state-of-the-art facilities for local and regional businesses for whom there is limited new best-in-class space of this size in Milton Keynes. Cushman & Wakefield and Louch Shacklock are acting as agents for Axis Park. For more information visit www.chancerygate.com Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Panattoni, the world’s largest privately owned industrial developer, has acquired an additional plot at Horizon 120 Business Park in Braintree, Essex, as it continues to expand its footprint in the South East logistics market. Braintree is a well-connected town in Essex, approximately 15 miles from Stansted Airport. The area provides direct access to the A120 and A131, linking swiftly to the M11 and M25 motorways, and benefits from mainline rail services to London Liverpool Street and a strong local and regional workforce. The newly 10-acre acquired site will form the next phase of Panattoni Park Braintree 1.0, to be known as Panattoni Park Braintree 2.0. The purchase follows 12 months after the launch of the initial phase, which comprises four units, one of which is already under construction. The new phase will deliver an additional 164,000 sq ft across six units, all built speculatively in response to sustained occupier demand in the South East of England. With an estimated Gross Development Value of £50 million, the project underlines Panattoni’s continued investment and long-term commitment to the UK logistics market. Offering a competitive alternative to units within the M25, the scheme is expected to attract a diverse range of occupiers seeking modern, sustainable accommodation with excellent connectivity and value. Full detailed planning consent has already been secured, enabling construction to commence in late 2025, with practical completion expected in late 2026. James Watson, Head of Development – Southern England & London at Panattoni, said: “This acquisition represents an important next step in our long-term commitment to Braintree and the wider Essex logistics market. The area remains significantly undersupplied, particularly for occupiers seeking high-quality, sustainable accommodation within close proximity of Stansted Airport and the M25. Panattoni Park Braintree 2.0 will enable us to deliver additional capacity to meet that demand, continuing the successful rollout of our speculative development strategy.” Panattoni Park Braintree 2.0 will deliver six new mid-box units designed to meet the needs of regional and national occupiers, including those in the aviation, parcel distribution, and local last-mile sectors. The buildings will be constructed to BREEAM ‘Excellent’ and EPC ‘A’ standards, with flexibility for semi-detached units to be combined into larger configurations if required. Panattoni has appointed CBRE and Coke Gearing as leasing agents. For more information, please visit: https://panattoni.co.uk/our-properties/braintree2 Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals