Commercial : Industrial News
Oxfordshire's Bicester Arc to deliver bespoke facilities

Oxfordshire’s Bicester Arc to deliver bespoke facilities

The Bicester Arc, a state-of-the-art 48-acre commercial business park near Oxford, is making strides toward delivering cutting-edge infrastructure tailored to meet the demands of modern businesses. The development promises to offer bespoke facilities, flexible workspaces, and exceptional connectivity, solidifying its position as a premier destination for innovation and growth. The

Read More »
SEGRO Unveils Sustainable Urban Warehousing in Hackney Wick and Deptford

SEGRO Unveils Sustainable Urban Warehousing in Hackney Wick and Deptford

SEGRO, a leading developer and investor in industrial and logistics spaces, has secured planning approval for two cutting-edge urban logistics developments in Hackney Wick and Deptford. These projects represent SEGRO’s innovative approach to sustainable warehousing, blending modern design with local character to meet the demands of a 24/7 city while

Read More »
McLaren Construction starts East Midlands industrial scheme

McLaren Construction starts East Midlands industrial scheme

McLaren Construction has commenced works at the first UK industrial scheme in the East Midlands for a joint venture with Garbe Industrial Real Estate GmbH and Invesco Real Estate. McLaren will oversee all aspects of construction for the £30 million project located in Shireoaks, Worksop – in the prime East

Read More »
Latest Issue
Issue 325 : Feb 2025

Commercial : Industrial News

Glencar appointed by Aviva Investors to build new 174,000 sq. ft industrial development in Birmingham

Glencar appointed by Aviva Investors to build new 174,000 sq. ft industrial development in Birmingham

Construction of Catalyst Industrial Park will see the development of four logistics/industrial units in a range of sizes from 22,500 sq. ft up to 64,250 sq. ft. Glencar, a leading UK based construction company recognised for its past ranking among Europe’s fastest-growing businesses and known for delivering high quality projects across various sectors, most notably in Logistics & Industrial, Life Sciences, Data Centres, Commercial Studios and Civils, has today announced that is has been appointed by Aviva Investors to construct four logistics/industrial units in a range of sizes from 22,500 sq. ft upto 64,250 sq. ft at Catalyst Industrial Park strategic logistics development situated site off Drews Lane in Birmingham. The secure, detached units of modern steel portal frame design will feature 8-12.5M eaves, 50KN/M2 floor loading, 3-phase power, dock loading and level access doors on units 1 (64,250 sq. ft) and 2 (63,300 sq. ft) and feature 24-hour access. They will be constructed targeting a BREEAM rating of excellent and EPC A rating, whilst also featuring photovoltaic panels and electric vehicle charging infrastructure. Speaking about the project, Glencar Managing Director for Midlands and North, Pete Goodman, said: “We are working with Aviva Investors currently on construction of the new 60,000 sq ft Sidney Sussex Advanced Laboratory & Life Sciences facility in Chesterford Research Park so we are naturally delighted to receive this further instruction in this key strategic logistics location in Birmingham. Logistics & Industrial is at the heart of what we do and we look forward to working with Aviva Investors and the full project team to deliver this outstanding scheme which features leading edge ESG credentials which are becoming standard in this sector”. James Stevens, Head of Real Estate Investment at Aviva Investors said: “We are pleased to partner with Glencar at Catalyst Industrial Park, which we think is an exciting new development project in a strategically important logistics location. Building on our existing relationship at Chesterford Research Park, one of the UK’s leading life science hubs, we look forward to delivering four exceptional facilities that we expect will be highly attractive to firms looking to benefit from Birmingham’s excellent logistics credentials, whilst also having the potential to contribute to long-term performance in our portfolio.” Catalyst Park is located in a popular industrial area of Birmingham on the historic former LDV manufacturing site. Direct access to the scheme is off Drews Lane, minutes away from the key arterial route of the A47 (Heartlands Spine Road), providing easy access to both J5 and J6 of the M6 which are both less than 3 miles from the site. Catalyst Park also benefits from being located outside the Birmingham City Centre congestion charge but in easy reach of the Birmingham Inner ring road and city centre 4 miles southwest. For further information about the project please click https://catalystindustrialpark.co.uk/ Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Read More »
Oxfordshire's Bicester Arc to deliver bespoke facilities

Oxfordshire’s Bicester Arc to deliver bespoke facilities

The Bicester Arc, a state-of-the-art 48-acre commercial business park near Oxford, is making strides toward delivering cutting-edge infrastructure tailored to meet the demands of modern businesses. The development promises to offer bespoke facilities, flexible workspaces, and exceptional connectivity, solidifying its position as a premier destination for innovation and growth. The park boasts a dedicated 13.7MVA power supply, a unique feature that sets it apart in the competitive market. Combined with a skilled local workforce, ample housing, and sustainability initiatives, Bicester Arc is designed to accommodate businesses seeking hybrid and future-focused operational solutions. Located near Bicester Village retail park, the site offers seamless transport links. Oxford is just 14 minutes away by train, London Marylebone is reachable in 46 minutes, and the M40’s Junction 9 is only a two-minute drive, ensuring excellent access to major hubs like London and Birmingham. The development has secured over 600,000 sq. ft of flexible commercial space through three major planning permissions, including a 62,000 sq. ft headquarters office/laboratory and 100,000 sq. ft across two office and R&D buildings. These sustainable structures will sit within landscaped plots, complemented by an exclusive 15-acre eco-park featuring biodiversity-rich environments and walking routes for occupiers. The site caters to a wide range of industries, attracting leaders in advanced engineering, deep tech, and new technologies. Its buildings, ranging from 10,000 to 600,000 sq. ft, provide opportunities for businesses of all sizes to thrive in one of the UK’s most economically vibrant regions. Bicester Arc is a joint venture between Peveril Securities Limited, a subsidiary of Bowmer & Kirkland, one of the UK’s most successful privately owned construction companies, and Sladen Estates, known for delivering high-quality projects nationwide. Construction will be managed by Bowmer & Kirkland, ensuring a seamless delivery experience. The project has also retained CBRE, White Commercial and Knight Frank as letting agents to enhance its market reach, with White Commercial leveraging its expertise in the automotive and technology sectors. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Read More »
Network Space Developments secures planning for four new industrial units on former Manchester College site

Network Space Developments secures planning for four new industrial units on former Manchester College site

Network Space Developments (NSD) has secured planning permission for four new industrial units at its site on Welcomb Street, Openshaw, in Manchester. Bought by NSD in 2022, the former Manchester College site covers 4 acres and will be redeveloped to form an extension to the adjacent City Works Business Park. Approved by Manchester City Council, the full planning application allows for the demolition of several buildings that had been previously used as workshops by the Manchester School of Building. These will make way for 75,173 sq ft of multi-let industrial accommodation for B2 and B8 uses. The scheme, designed by AEW Architects, is accessed from Ashton Old Road (A635) and will comprise of four highly sustainable commercial units with first floor ancillary office space, ranging from 7,674 sq ft to 29,439 sq ft. Externally, there will be generous service yards, 98 car parking spaces with 20 EV charging points. The site is just 4km from both the city centre and the M60 which, in turn, provides transport links to the M67, M56 and M62, allowing connectivity with key regional hubs Liverpool, Warrington, Leeds and Sheffield. The scheme’s sustainability credentials are strengthened with various bus routes close by and Ashbury train station just 1km away. Joe Burnett, Development Director for NSD, commented: “We’re thrilled to have secured planning permission for this project, which marks the final phase of development at City Works Business Park. While this new scheme will have its own identity, it will complement the existing City Works, which remains a flagship NSD project and is a testament to our commitment to deliver high-quality, sustainable industrial spaces.” “Located in a sought-after area of Greater Manchester, the site is perfectly positioned for industrial and last-mile logistics uses, with the added benefit of accessibility to a skilled local workforce. This new phase will provide commercial occupiers with premium, sustainable facilities in a prime location. Demolition is now underway and we intend to be on site with the main building works next year.” City Works Business Park, also developed by NSD and now owned and managed by Network Space Investments, is a highly successful hub of 48 trade and warehouse units ranging from 2,000 to 5,000 sq ft, totalling 173,330 sq ft. Fully let to a mix of trade, industrial, and employment tenants, the park exemplifies NSD’s expertise in delivering high-quality, functional, and sustainable developments. The professional team included AEW Architects, GWB Consultants, Hydrock, Hannan Associates and Spawforths, who all advised NSD on the planning application. The agents for the scheme are Rob Taylor from Cushman & Wakefield and Ruth Leighton from JLL. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Read More »
Furniture distributor takes turnkey solution at leading Northamptonshire logistics park

Furniture distributor takes turnkey solution at leading Northamptonshire logistics park

Prologis UK, a leading logistics property owner, investor and developer, has welcomed Flexispot Limited,a kinetic furniture manufacturer, to Prologis Park Wellingborough West. The move to DC2 forms part of the business’ expansion plans and move from its former base in nearby Northampton. Flexispot, owned by global 3PL business Lecangs LLC, is leading the kinetic furniture movement, putting ergonomics and eco-consciousness at the heart of its operations. Flexispot’s offering encompasses a range of office furniture such as adjustable desks, chairs and storage solutions made from fully-recyclable materials with a focus on advanced engineering and technology. Strategically located only half a mile from the A509, with fast access to the A45, A14 and M1 in the East Midlands, Prologis Park Wellingborough West is a perfectly situated logistics hub. Soon to be Flexispot’s new home, DC2 spans 130,726 sq. ft. of fully-fitted and racked warehouse space. The unit was built with the environment in mind, achieving an EPC A rating, energy efficient LED lighting and is Net Zero in operation, in line with the UKGBC framework. Flexispot’s arrival to the Park community will boost the local economy, providing a number of new job opportunities for the surrounding area. Tom Price, leasing director for Prologis UK, said: “Working with Flexispot has been incredibly rewarding and it’s excellent that the business has chosen Prologis Park Wellingborough West for its expansion. The team’s top priority was a facility with racking already in place and DC2 fits the bill perfectly. We’re all looking forward to welcoming the business to the Park’s thriving community.” The newly signed agreement builds on the global partnership between Lecangs LLC and Prologis, covering circa two million sq. ft. of logistics space internationally. Richard Tang, Business Operational Director at Flexispot Limited, commented: “Choosing DC2 at Prologis Park Wellingborough West was the natural choice for us. Our parent company already has a longstanding relationship with Prologis, so we knew that we would be in good hands right from the outset. Finding a unit with racking already in place was a ‘must-have’ for us too and we’re confident we’ve found the perfect base from which to grow our business further.”  Cushman & Wakefield and Fisher German acted on behalf of Prologis UK. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Read More »
Leading tile industry supplier snaps up the last spot at Prologis Park Pineham in Northampton

Leading tile industry supplier snaps up the last spot at Prologis Park Pineham in Northampton

Prologis UK, a leading investor, owner and developer of logistics property, announces a new lease with Pro Tiler Tools, part of Topps Group, a leading supplier of high-quality tiles and tiling equipment, for DC2 at Prologis Park Pineham, in Northampton, bringing the park to full occupancy. Following a comprehensive refurbishment, the nationwide brand has signed a 15-year lease to use the unit as a base for future growth plans.  The refurbishment was designed with sustainability and operational efficiency in mind, raising the 138,192 sq ft, distribution centre to an EPC A rating. The finished space features LED lighting, a fully-electric office, EV parking, rainwater harvesting whilst the roof is already futureproofed for solar PV.  The high-specification building is equipped with 12 dock doors, two level access doors and a clear internal height of 12.5 metres, and is due to be fitted-out with racking through the Prologis Essentials platform. Ash Patel, Head of Property at Topps Tiles, said: “Finding the right partner and location was key when looking to expand our operations, and Prologis and their Pineham Park was just that. Being close to our existing operation for our staff, whilst also having the prime distribution location by J15A M1 perfectly meets our logistical and operational needs. The Essentials platform that Prologis offers has also been of real benefit. We look forward to becoming part of the community at Pineham and can’t wait to see our partnership with Prologis grow and develop even further.” Situated within the Midlands’ ‘Golden Triangle’ of logistics, Prologis Park Pineham will serve as a crucial part of Pro Tiler Tools’ supply chain operations through its strategic location near Junction 15A of the M1, offering easy access across the UK. The Park is also home to a number of other leading brands, including Sainsbury’s, Morrisons, BMW and Wincanton. The Park also offers dedicated areas of open space with walking trails of up to 3km where Park employees can enjoy breaks, along with art installations through Prologis UK’s PARKlife initiative.  Tom Price, Leasing Director at Prologis UK, said: “For many years we have incorporated sustainability into the designs of all our units, ensuring refurbishments can easily elevate existing facilities to match the industry-leading standards of our brand new properties, and DC2 is a perfect example of this. We look forward to welcoming Pro Tiler Tools to Prologis Park Pineham and seeing the business go from strength to strength.”   Cushman and Wakefield, BNP Paribas and Knight Frank acted for Prologis and Colliers acted for Pro Tiler Tools. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Read More »
SEGRO Unveils Sustainable Urban Warehousing in Hackney Wick and Deptford

SEGRO Unveils Sustainable Urban Warehousing in Hackney Wick and Deptford

SEGRO, a leading developer and investor in industrial and logistics spaces, has secured planning approval for two cutting-edge urban logistics developments in Hackney Wick and Deptford. These projects represent SEGRO’s innovative approach to sustainable warehousing, blending modern design with local character to meet the demands of a 24/7 city while supporting the decarbonisation of supply chains. Transforming Inner-City Logistics The schemes, situated in London’s Zone 2, aim to enhance urban logistics infrastructure while aligning with SEGRO’s commitment to sustainable growth. Sustainability at the Core Both developments aim for BREEAM Excellent ratings and will include green features such as EV charging points, solar PV installations, and extensive landscaping to improve local wellbeing. SEGRO’s focus on sustainable urban assets helps reduce carbon footprints while cutting operational costs for occupiers. Community Investment and Innovation SEGRO is actively contributing to the local community. A £25,000 donation to the Textile Reuse Hub in Hackney Wick supports circular fashion training and business growth. Partnerships with organisations such as the Hackney Wick and Fish Island Community Development Trust further underscore SEGRO’s commitment to fostering local skills and opportunities. Expanding Urban Warehousing Strategy These projects join SEGRO’s wider strategy in inner London, which includes planned schemes at Wapping and Clapham. With over 450 clients in London—including Amazon, Tesco, DHL, and Ocado—SEGRO is well-positioned to meet the growing demand for sustainable, efficient urban logistics spaces. Bonnie Minshull, SEGRO’s Head of London, commented: “Our developments in Hackney Wick and Deptford represent the future of urban warehousing, offering flexible and sustainable solutions for businesses. By integrating innovative design and a focus on community, we are helping redefine inner-city logistics for a modern, greener London.” SEGRO will showcase its latest innovations at the UKREiiF event, engaging with stakeholders and reinforcing its position as a leader in sustainable urban development. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Read More »
Midlands and North contractor commences works on first UK industrial hub for Garbe and Invesco Real Estate

Midlands and North contractor commences works on first UK industrial hub for Garbe and Invesco Real Estate

McLaren Construction (Midlands and North) has announced the start of works at the first UK industrial scheme in the East Midlands for a joint venture with Garbe Industrial Real Estate GmbH and Invesco Real Estate. McLaren will oversee all aspects of construction for the £30 million project located in Shireoaks, Worksop – in the prime East Midlands logistics district, including associated access roads and landscaping features. With a 45-week completion target, works will include the design and build of two new industrial units totalling approximately 550,000 sq. ft across 28.9 acres, alongside the construction of S38 works, and a private access road that will form the main access into the site and adjacent plot. The site is easily accessed from the A57 and located in equal distance to the major A1 and M1 motorway links, with the major cities of Manchester, Birmingham, Nottingham and Sheffield reachable within less than two hours. Soft landscaping, turfing and planting has been undertaken as part of the initial grounds and landscape works and complex aspects of the build will include the S38 carriageway to an adoptable standard throughout the site, alongside the implementation of a culvert drainage system. In keeping with the environmental and landscape specifications, the build will include green cladding of varying shades alongside glazing and ribbon windows to allow natural optimised lighting to all warehouse areas.  McLaren Construction Midlands and North demonstrates its commitment to environmental sustainability by integrating recycled components from previous demolitions, using available materials from the groundwork that can be crushed and re-used, alongside connecting to the site’s Mains Power thereby eliminating the need for generators and fuel. This approach will not only contribute to the scheme’s BREEAM Rating of Excellent and EPC rating of A+, but it will also extend to McLaren’s efforts to enhance local ecology. The team has worked alongside the client to ensure satisfaction with pre-commencement planning conditions, and enabling works were undertaken during bird nesting season, with an ecologist appointed to oversee the process. The contractor has meticulously planned the development to minimise environmental impact, enhance biodiversity, and target additional BREEAM points for ecological enhancements. Gary Cramp, managing director of McLaren Construction (Midlands and North), said: “We are honoured to be working alongside Garbe and Invesco Real Estate as part of a joint venture for the first industrial and logistics scheme in the UK – contributing to the expansion of the companies’ UK and European logistics portfolio.” “Bringing our experience delivering exceptional quality sustainable industrial and logistics builds, and with the prime Midlands location of the site, the scheme is well positioned to support the operational growth needs of businesses across a variety of sectors.” To find out more about McLaren Construction (Midlands and North) Ltd, please visit: www.mclarengroup.com. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Read More »
PLP lets 96,000 sq ft to BAE Systems at PLP Bessemer Park, Sheffield

PLP lets 96,000 sq ft to BAE Systems at PLP Bessemer Park, Sheffield

PLP has secured another blue-chip tenant, BAE Systems, at PLP Bessemer Park, Sheffield. BAE Systems have taken Unit 5, which is a new 96,000 sq ft, state of the art logistics and industrial facility and will create 50 new jobs for the area. This is the third successful letting at the development with 75% of the units now let, with only one unit remaining of 294,000 sq ft. This second phase of development at Bessemer Park was completed in Q1 this year and has already seen Unit 3 let to ITM and Unit 4 let to Dormole. The scheme has been delivered to best in class specification and in accordance with the UK Green Building Council’s Carbon Net Zero standard, ensuring reduced carbon emissions through construction and enabling net zero operations for all occupiers. Hugh Chesterton, Development Director at PLP, commented: “We are delighted to welcome BAE Systems to PLP Bessemer Park. It is great to have another blue-chip British business join PLP Bessemer Park. This is another stamp of approval for Sheffield’s premier industrial and logistics location.” The final 294,000 sq ft unit is immediately available to lease. Knight Frank, CBRE and Moriarty & Co (part of CPP) are the appointed leasing agents for the development. BAE Systems were represented by Colliers. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Read More »
McLaren Construction starts East Midlands industrial scheme

McLaren Construction starts East Midlands industrial scheme

McLaren Construction has commenced works at the first UK industrial scheme in the East Midlands for a joint venture with Garbe Industrial Real Estate GmbH and Invesco Real Estate. McLaren will oversee all aspects of construction for the £30 million project located in Shireoaks, Worksop – in the prime East Midlands logistics district, including associated access roads and landscaping features. With a 45-week completion target, works will include the design and build of two new industrial units totalling approximately 550,000 sq. ft across 28.9 acres, alongside the construction of S38 works, and a private access road that will form the main access into the site and adjacent plot. The site is easily accessed from the A57 and located in equal distance to the major A1 and M1 motorway links, with the major cities of Manchester, Birmingham, Nottingham and Sheffield reachable within less than two hours. Soft landscaping, turfing and planting has been undertaken as part of the initial grounds and landscape works and complex aspects of the build will include the S38 carriageway to an adoptable standard throughout the site, alongside the implementation of a culvert drainage system. In keeping with the environmental and landscape specifications, the build will include green cladding of varying shades alongside glazing and ribbon windows to allow natural optimised lighting to all warehouse areas. McLaren Construction Midlands and North demonstrates its commitment to environmental sustainability by integrating recycled components from previous demolitions, using available materials from the groundwork that can be crushed and re-used, alongside connecting to the site’s Mains Power thereby eliminating the need for generators and fuel. This approach will not only contribute to the scheme’s BREEAM Rating of Excellent and EPC rating of A+, but it will also extend to McLaren’s efforts to enhance local ecology. The team has worked alongside the client to ensure satisfaction with pre-commencement planning conditions, and enabling works were undertaken during bird nesting season, with an ecologist appointed to oversee the process. The contractor has meticulously planned the development to minimise environmental impact, enhance biodiversity, and target additional BREEAM points for ecological enhancements. Gary Cramp, managing director of McLaren Construction (Midlands and North), said: “We are honoured to be working alongside Garbe and Invesco Real Estate as part of a joint venture for the first industrial and logistics scheme in the UK – contributing to the expansion of the companies’ UK and European logistics portfolio. “Bringing our experience delivering exceptional quality sustainable industrial and logistics builds, and with the prime Midlands location of the site, the scheme is well positioned to support the operational growth needs of businesses across a variety of sectors.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Read More »
GLP advances Clean Energy programme in the Netherlands with completion of solar project at Venlo Belfeld

GLP advances Clean Energy programme in the Netherlands with completion of solar project at Venlo Belfeld

GLP, a leading global business builder, owner, developer, and operator of logistics real estate, digital infrastructure, renewable energy, and related technologies, announces that GLP Clean Energy, its renewable energy business in Europe, has completed a new installation of a rooftop solar PV system at its logistics centre in Belfeld, in the Netherlands.  GLP’s Venlo Belfeld logistics centre of approximately 3,8000 SQM, has been equipped with 8,000 solar panels across its roof, with 4.6MWp of power generation capacity that will supply the annual equivalent of 1,145 Dutch households. The project is expected to save around 1,400 tons of CO2 equivalent emissions per year, helping to improve air quality and environmental health around the municipality of Venlo. The entire electricity output of approximately 4,200 MWh per year will be sold to Scholt Energy, a Dutch independent energy supplier. This arrangement allows for the generated power to be directed to the grid, where it will contribute to the broader energy mix used by regional and national consumers. Acquired by GLP in April 2022, the Venlo Belfeld logistics centre is situated along several important trade routes, namely the A61, A67 and A73 motorways, positioning it as one of the most desirable areas for European logistics operations in the Netherlands. The Venlo Belfeld facility carries a BREEAM ‘Excellent’ certification. It features a range of biodiversity initiatives including the provision of habitat corridors for local native species, nesting habitats for insects, birds, and bats, a variety of ecologically valuable plants, and four bat pole boxes near the boundaries of the property. These efforts to preserve local biodiversity underline GLP’s commitments to sustainability and to the protection and promotion of the natural environment. Stefano Fissolo, Senior Director, GLP Clean Energy: “We recognise the importance of helping to accelerate the energy transition and work towards a clean energy future by leveraging the opportunity of our extensive property portfolio.” Philippe Hendriks, Country Director Netherlands & Belgium at GLP, said: “The integration of renewable energy solutions into logistics assets is essential to enabling our sector to meet its net zero targets and secure long-term asset value. As we continue to expand our presence in the Netherlands, we are proud to be providing our customers with high-quality, sustainable logistics facilities that are built for the future, while at the same time supporting the Netherlands’ energy transition goals.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Read More »