Commercial : Industrial News
Plans for dynamic Midlands commercial hub to be displayed at UKREiiF

Plans for dynamic Midlands commercial hub to be displayed at UKREiiF

Plans to create a dynamic new commercial hub in Warwickshire – as part of a wider regeneration scheme – will be showcased at a major property forum. Warwickshire Property & Development Group (WPDG), Warwickshire County Council’s arms-length property development company, will show off its vision for Fusiliers Way, located between

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Developer submits plans for Project Halo

Developer submits plans for Project Halo

Developer Network Space has submitted a full planning application for Project Halo—a high-tech employment development at the St Helens Manufacturing and Innovation Campus. Located on a five-acre site off the A570 James Roby Way, the scheme proposes four state-of-the-art ‘Tech Box’ units designed to support life science and advanced manufacturing

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Network Space submits planning application for 'Project Halo' Life Sciences Hub at St Helens Manufacturing and Innovation Campus

Network Space submits planning application for ‘Project Halo’ Life Sciences Hub at St Helens Manufacturing and Innovation Campus

Network Space Developments (NSD) has submitted a full planning application for a cutting-edge employment development at the St Helens Manufacturing and Innovation Campus. The Project Halo proposal relates to a five-acre council-owned site located off the A570 James Roby Way and seeks to deliver four state-of-the-art “Tech Box” units –

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Panattoni acquires 35-acre Essex site to deliver major logistics hub

Panattoni acquires 35-acre Essex site to deliver major logistics hub

Panattoni, the world’s largest privately owned industrial developer, has confirmed the acquisition of a prominent development site at Horizon 120 Business Park in Braintree, Essex. The project, known as Panattoni Park Braintree, is set to deliver 575,000 sq ft of state-of-the-art industrial and logistics space, bolstering both local and regional

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Barberry £20 million warehouse development gets underway

Barberry £20 million warehouse development gets underway

Construction of a £20 million speculatively developed industrial and logistics unit at one of the West Midlands’ leading business parks has started, commercial property developer and investor Barberry Industrial announced today. Barberry has appointed Bromsgrove-based main contractor Benniman to deliver the development at Junction 15 of the M40 at Tournament

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Latest Issue
Issue 330 : Jul 2025

Commercial : Industrial News

Plans for dynamic Midlands commercial hub to be displayed at UKREiiF

Plans for dynamic Midlands commercial hub to be displayed at UKREiiF

Plans to create a dynamic new commercial hub in Warwickshire – as part of a wider regeneration scheme – will be showcased at a major property forum. Warwickshire Property & Development Group (WPDG), Warwickshire County Council’s arms-length property development company, will show off its vision for Fusiliers Way, located between Leamington Spa and Warwick, at UKREiiF in Leeds later this month. The Fusiliers Way proposal will be central to WPDG’s promotional activity at UKREiiF, where it will join forces with Warwickshire County Council as one of the authority’s official partners. The scheme would see the development of 16 units across 43,000 sq ft of commercial space to support SMEs and local businesses.Fifteen of the business units would range from 1,000 sq ft to 3,500 sq ft. The application, which has been submitted to Warwick District Council, also features the footprint for a larger 15,000 sq ft building. Fusiliers Way aims to deliver high quality, sustainable and energy efficient units, built to BREEAM Very Good and EPC A standards. Stuart Buckley, Managing Director at WPDG, said: “We’re looking forward to joining our partners at UKREiiF to highlight our recent successes and to showcase what we have coming up. “After the success of our Sucham Park scheme in Southam we are pressing forward with a pipeline of sites that can provide high-quality space to support SMEs to grow and thrive in Warwickshire. “We are expecting to start work this summer on our scheme at Fusiliers Way, which is part of a wider masterplan to create a mixed-use community in the area. “Alongside our successful joint ventures, we are ramping up WPDG-led activity at two residential sites in the region– with two further direct delivery sites set to come through over the coming months. “This means we are in a great position to meet with potential residential development partners and occupiers for our upcoming commercial schemes – and we hope to do this at UKREiiF.” If approved, phase one of Fusiliers Way will provide purpose-built space for expanding businesses and start-ups in the area and help to create in the region of 85 jobs. The second phase would seek to deliver a local centre to support the area’s growing neighbourhood and business community, including a convenience store, children’s day nursery and coffee shop. WPDG is one of eight organisations across the public and private sectors that Invest Warwickshire, Warwickshire County Council’s inward investment team, will partner at UKREiiF, taking place from May 20 to 22. The partnerships will see each organisation involved in panel discussions Invest Warwickshire is hosting at UKREiiF, the UK’s largest real estate event and conference. Mark Ryder, Executive Director for Communities at Warwickshire County Council, said: “Warwickshire is one of the most dynamic economic locations in the Midlands and the UK. The county is a popular destination for both UK and foreign direct investment, and the area is home to some of the most important commercial property developments such as Coventry & Warwick Giga Park, one of the eight UK Investment Zones, MIRA Technology Park South Site and major town centre opportunities like Transforming Nuneaton, Creative Quarter Leamington Spa and Rugby Town Centre. “UKREiiF is a great opportunity for us to promote our partner organisation, Warwickshire Property Development Group and the new homes and SME commercial space being developed by them in the county, and Warwickshire County Council’s Property Infrastructure Fund, which can lend up to £10m to bring forward commercial development projects in support of growth and jobs. “We also look forward to working with a range of partners, including Tritax Big Box, IM Properties and Stoford to promote new development opportunities in the county and local area at the event this year.” WPDG was formed in 2021 and is delivering projects to realise the value and economic impact of Warwickshire County Council assets for the benefit of residents in Warwickshire. Its first commercial development, a 42,200 sq ft industrial scheme in Southam, completed last year and is now 100 per cent let. The Group is also delivering around 2,000 homes through its Develop Warwickshire joint venture with Vistry Group and WCC, and its own direct delivery. WPDG will be in the West Midlands Pavilion at UKREiiF. To arrange a meeting with WPDG, before, during or after UKREiiF, call the main office on 0192 695 6492, email info@wpdg.co.uk or contact Warwickshire Property Development Group’s LinkedIn page. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Developer submits plans for Project Halo

Developer submits plans for Project Halo

Developer Network Space has submitted a full planning application for Project Halo—a high-tech employment development at the St Helens Manufacturing and Innovation Campus. Located on a five-acre site off the A570 James Roby Way, the scheme proposes four state-of-the-art ‘Tech Box’ units designed to support life science and advanced manufacturing businesses. The development forms a key part of the Liverpool City Region Life Sciences Innovation Zone, which aims to drive innovation and create high-value jobs across the region. The application follows the site’s acquisition by St Helens Borough Council, supported by the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority, and Network Space’s appointment as development manager in 2023. The company previously collaborated with the Council to deliver the £54 million Glass Futures facility, a global centre of excellence for sustainable glass innovation located next door. Extensive enabling works, carried out by NSD, have already been completed, including ground remediation, re-profiling, and the construction of a new estate road and roundabout at Langtree Way. These improvements have primed the location for immediate development, enhancing links to surrounding innovation assets. The submitted plans seek approval for four hybrid industrial and office buildings ranging from 7,629 to 31,484 sq. ft, totalling 85,000 sq. ft of flexible employment space. The high-spec units will cater to occupiers across use classes B2 (advanced manufacturing), B8 (storage/distribution), and E(g) (including R&D labs and professional services). Each unit has been designed for adaptability, allowing tailored configurations for tenants’ specific office and laboratory needs. Sustainability is at the core of the Project Halo design, with features such as air source heat pumps, rooftop photovoltaic panels, electric vehicle charging points, and cycle facilities. The scheme will aim for BREEAM ‘Outstanding’ accreditation, underlining its commitment to environmental performance and sustainable development. Project Halo is intended to attract synergistic life sciences and advanced manufacturing occupiers, reinforcing St Helens’ status as a growing centre for innovation. It supports the Liverpool City Region’s Life Sciences Innovation Zone Prospectus, which targets the creation of 8,000 jobs and £800 million in investment over the next decade. The St Helens Campus—already home to Glass Futures, SINA Medical Glass, and Inovus Medical, is emerging as a focal point for materials science and health technologies, complementing wider regional strengths in infectious disease research and AI-driven healthcare. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Network Space submits planning application for 'Project Halo' Life Sciences Hub at St Helens Manufacturing and Innovation Campus

Network Space submits planning application for ‘Project Halo’ Life Sciences Hub at St Helens Manufacturing and Innovation Campus

Network Space Developments (NSD) has submitted a full planning application for a cutting-edge employment development at the St Helens Manufacturing and Innovation Campus. The Project Halo proposal relates to a five-acre council-owned site located off the A570 James Roby Way and seeks to deliver four state-of-the-art “Tech Box” units – hybrid industrial and office buildings designed to meet the needs of life science advanced manufacturing occupiers. The scheme forms a key part of the Liverpool City Region Life Sciences Innovation Zone, which aims to stimulate innovation and create high-value jobs across the region. NSD was appointed by St Helens Borough Council as development manager for the site in 2023, following the Council’s acquisition of the land with support from the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority. The company previously partnered with the Council to deliver the landmark £54 million Glass Futures adjacent to the site, a global centre of excellence for sustainable glass research and innovation. The site has already undergone extensive enabling works, including ground remediation, re-profiling, and the construction of a new estate road and roundabout arm at Langtree Way. These works, led by NSD, enhance connectivity with neighbouring developments and position the site as a “development-ready” location. The application seeks approval for four high specification Tech Box units ranging from 7,629 sq. ft to 31,484 sq. ft. Totalling 85,000 sq. ft they will offer high quality flexible employment space across use classes B2 (advanced manufacturing), B8 (storage/distribution), and E(g) (R&D laboratories, professional services, and ancillary offices). All will have adaptable layouts to accommodate bespoke tenant office and laboratory requirements. This sustainable scheme will include all electric air source heat pumps and photovoltaic roof panels to minimise operational energy, electric vehicle charging points, cycle parking and landscaping aligned with the decarbonisation goals of the St Helens Campus. Already home to flagship projects such as Glass Futures, SINA Medical Glass and Inovus Medical, the Campus has also aided the collaboration and expansion of existing tenants. The scheme has been designed with a strong emphasis on sustainability and will target BREEAM ‘Outstanding’ accreditation, reflecting the highest standards of environmental performance and design. The Project Halo development will target synergistic life science advanced manufacturing occupiers, bolstering St Helens’ position as a hub for innovation and manufacturing. The project aligns with the Liverpool City Region’s Life Sciences Innovation Zone Prospectus, which aims to create 8,000 jobs and unlock £800 million in public-private investment over 10 years. As part of this initiative, the St Helens Campus will focus on materials science and health technologies, complementing the region’s strengths in infectious disease research and AI-driven healthcare. Situated in a City Region Innovation Zone, any future occupiers will enjoy multiple benefits that include: full Stamp Duty Land Tax relief for land and buildings bought for commercial use or development for commercial purposes; 100% relief from business rates for 5 years on newly occupied business premises; Enhanced Capital Allowances of 100% first year allowance for companies’ qualifying expenditure on plant and machinery assets; and enhanced Structures and Buildings Allowance with accelerated relief allows businesses to reduce their taxable profits by 10% of the cost of qualifying non-residential investment per year, relieving 100% of their cost of structures and buildings over 10 years. Employer National Insurance Contributions Relief is also zero-rated for Employer NICs on salaries of any new employee based in the Zone for at least 60% of their time – on earnings up to £25,000 per year. This relief can be applied for up to 36 months per employee. NSD Development Director Joe Burnett said: “This application represents a pivotal step in realising the vision for a high-quality employment space that addresses a productivity gap within the manufacturing science sector. By attracting life sciences businesses, there is the potential to create hundreds of skilled jobs while reinforcing St Helen’s key role in the region’s Investment Zone.” Councillor Anthony Burns, St Helens Borough Council’s Leader said: “This is another major step forward for the growth and regeneration ambitions of St Helens. It isn’t just about shiny new buildings but more about raising aspirations and creating new opportunities for our residents. In this project we will support hi-tech businesses to start up or expand operations here in our great borough. This development proposal will build on the renewed focus of our borough as a world leader in manufacturing innovation, building on our rich history for a brighter future for our residents and communities.” Subject to approval, construction is anticipated to start in early 2026. Support for the Halo Project has been provided by Architects AEW, GWB Consultants, Stantec, Kaizen Consulting Engineers and Spawforths. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Panattoni acquires 35-acre Essex site to deliver major logistics hub

Panattoni acquires 35-acre Essex site to deliver major logistics hub

Panattoni, the world’s largest privately owned industrial developer, has confirmed the acquisition of a prominent development site at Horizon 120 Business Park in Braintree, Essex. The project, known as Panattoni Park Braintree, is set to deliver 575,000 sq ft of state-of-the-art industrial and logistics space, bolstering both local and regional supply chain infrastructure. Strategically positioned just over 15 minutes from London Stansted Airport and under an hour from the M25, Port of Felixstowe, and London Gateway, the site offers exceptional access to London, the Southeast, and international markets – making it an ideal location for logistics and distribution operators. This acquisition marks as a strategic launchpad into the East of England, paving the way for further development opportunities in the region. Construction is already underway on Phase 1, which comprises a single speculative unit of 171,915 sq ft, scheduled for completion in Q2 2026. In parallel, a Reserved Matters planning application has been submitted for Phase 2, which will deliver an additional 405,000 sq ft across three units, ranging from 65,000 sq ft to 240,000 sq ft, with completion anticipated in Q4 2026. All buildings at Panattoni Park Braintree will be delivered to leading sustainability standards, achieving BREEAM ‘Excellent’ ratings and EPC ‘A’ certification. The scheme is also targeting Net Zero Carbon in construction, with sustainability-focused features such as rooftop photovoltaic panels, EV charging infrastructure, and low-energy LED lighting. Future-proofed power supplies will support occupiers’ evolving needs, while biodiverse landscaping and exercise walkways will promote employee wellbeing. James Watson, Head of Development, Southern England & London at Panattoni, commented: “Panattoni Park Braintree represents a key milestone in our commitment to deliver next-generation logistics hubs in the UK’s most supply-constrained and strategically important locations. This development will offer exceptional connectivity, market-leading sustainability credentials, and flexibility for occupiers seeking to future-proof their operations. We are delighted to bring this scheme forward and contribute to Braintree’s growing position as a logistics and employment hub.” Panattoni Park Braintree benefits from proximity to local amenities and transport links, including direct access to the A131 and the Horizon 120 Gridserve Electric Forecourt, which offers cutting-edge EV charging and retail facilities, enhancing convenience for businesses and employees alike. Furthermore, with Braintree’s working-age population forecast to grow at more than double the national average and over 14,000 new homes planned for the area, the development will support local employment and skills advancement, further cementing its role within the community. CBRE and Coke Gearing are appointed as the leasing agents. For more information on this scheme, please visit: www.panattoni.co.uk/braintree Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Unilode Aviation Solutions take Unit 5b 27,000 sq ft facility at Stud Brook Business Park, Castle Donington

Unilode Aviation Solutions take Unit 5b 27,000 sq ft facility at Stud Brook Business Park, Castle Donington

Clowes Developments have announced that unit 5b, a 27,000 sq ft facility at Stud Brook Business Park, has been let to ULD management solutions provider Unilode Aviation Solutions. Based in Zurich, Switzerland, Unilode oversees the largest digitised fleet of nearly 200,000 Unit Load Devices (ULDs) in the aviation sector. The company also operates the most extensive global network for maintaining, repairing ULDs, ULD rentals, inflight galley cart equipment and digitalisation solutions to over 90 airlines, utilising a network that spans more than 550 airports, 18 regional offices, and 50 certified repair stations, all supported by their dedicated global team of over 800 employees. Unilode will be relocating to Unit 5b at Stud Brook Business Park in Castle Donington which will see the company invest and grow their services to fulfil their customer’s needs at East Midlands Airport, just a stone’s throw away from Stud Brook Business Park. Janis Balkens, Chief Operating officer at Unilode Aviation Solutions said about on their move, “At Unilode, thanks to our dedicated team and valued customers, we take great pride in the achievements we’ve already made at our East Midlands airport location. Our focus has been on delivering exceptional service, while creating a positive working environment. The decision to relocate our operations, that’s includes our 30 strong workforce, to Studbrook Business Park, will not only enhance our service capabilities but also enable us to support a larger customer base, while aligning with our sustainability goals on a local and global scale. Unilode also recognise the importance of a sustainable business model that benefits our employees, customers, and the planet. With this new state of the art facility, we’re committed to our sustainability initiatives, such as utilising 100% renewable energy, improving waste management practices, and aiming for BREEAM certification for our new operations at East Midlands Airport. Together with our customers, partners and suppliers we are embracing a circular economy that drives positive change. Our East Midlands Airport operations move, as well as developments across the globe such as the moves to new Hong Kong and Singapore MROs, and refurbishments at both Newark (USA) and our London Heathrow MRO, help us to continuously invest and makes sure we remain responsive to the growing needs of our global customer base, which at our East Midland operations includes DHL, West Atlantic, Singapore Airlines, Aer Lingus, Finnair, TUI and many more. ” The deal was put together by Tim Gilbertson, Director of FHP Property Consultants who added: “It’s fantastic to announce the letting of a further unit at Stud Brook and again to a globally known company.  The move will help Unilode expand and improve again their services to their clients in the region and from our perspective, it sees yet another deal done at Stud Brook with only a couple of units left available in the first phase.  The final units are due to complete and be ready for occupation at the end of May and with interest still good in the last couple of units, hopefully there will be other deals to announce shortly. The focus then switches to smaller units which are being developed out speculatively at Stud Brook of up to 5,000ft² which will all be ready for occupation by the end of 2025. A pleasure to work with Unilode on this deal and I wish them well for the future.” Whilst available space at Stud Brook Business Park is limited there does remain some opportunity for leasehold agreements. Interested parties are invited to contact agents directly via richards@ng-cs.com and tim@fhp.co.uk. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Pigeon secures multi-million-pound green loan for eco-friendly industrial development

Pigeon secures multi-million-pound green loan for eco-friendly industrial development

Pigeon, a leading land promoter, developer and property investor has secured a multi-million-pound green loan from Virgin Money to fund a new 86,316 sq ft industrial warehouse and office space at Theobald’s Business Park in Cheshunt, Hertfordshire.  Pigeon is aiming for the highest standards of efficiency and functionality with the project, which is known as ‘The MAX50 scheme’. Featuring a mezzanine floor and office space, this modern facility aims to meet the growing demand for premium industrial and commercial environments.  In a landmark move, Virgin Money’s Hotel & Real Estate Finance team provided its first green loan to fund the development, supporting Pigeon’s Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) strategy and their transition towards net zero. The project is aiming to meet high environmental standards, with EPC A and BREEAM1 Excellent ratings.  The property will be leased to Stephen James (Automotive) Ltd, a BMW and Mini Dealership, as a service centre, paint and body repair shop, parts distribution hub and central office facility to support its dealerships around the Greater London and South East area.   The groundbreaking ceremony for the MAX50 scheme was conducted in March, with the development expected to be completed by early 2026.   Hugh French, development director at Pigeon, said: “We are delighted that Virgin Money is supporting us with finance to develop this new facility for Stephen James Group. We have formed a strong relationship with their Real Estate team and are proud to have received the team’s first green loan.  “In addition to a high standard of sustainability, Cheshunt MAX50 will generate over £4m in social impact for both the local community and wider region.”  Jonathan Sant, senior director real estate finance at Virgin Money, said: “Supporting Pigeon with our first green loan from the Hotel & Real Estate Finance team is a significant milestone for Virgin Money.   “The MAX50 scheme perfectly aligns with both our commitment to providing sustainable finance and Pigeon’s ESG strategy. We look forward to seeing this state-of-the-art facility contribute to the local economy and set new benchmarks in environmental standards.”  Non-residential buildings account for 5% of UK emissions2, so providing this loan plays a part in delivering a more environmentally friendly building stock, and works towards Virgin Money’s Mobiliser Fund ambition to have 20% of business lending balances to financing the transition to next economy by 2027.  Virgin Money’s specialist Hotel & Real Estate Finance team offers tailored financial solutions to businesses across the hotel and real estate sectors. Further information can be found at https://uk.virginmoney.com/business/real-estate/ , or by contacting Jonathan Sant, senior director real estate finance, at jonathan.sant@virginmoney.com or 07796703288.  Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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McLaren Construction Midlands and North to deliver Plot 4 of landmark industrial hub in Bristol

McLaren Construction Midlands and North to deliver Plot 4 of landmark industrial hub in Bristol

McLaren Construction Midlands and North has been appointed to deliver Plot 4 of the transformative Matrix 49 industrial scheme in Avonmouth, Bristol, on behalf of Equation Properties Ltd. Works on Plot 4 commenced in February this year, with a forecasted programme of 66 weeks to deliver completion by April 2026. Early works are set to include ground improvements and piling works, alongside the installation of a new foul pumping station, and the programme will see the design and construction of a 596,000 sq. ft speculative warehouse unit, accompanied by office space, transport hubs, a link bridge, and a gatehouse. The project also includes external works, underground drainage, utility connections, and landscaping, contributing further to the site’s evolution into a prime logistics and industrial hub. Aligning with McLaren Construction’s commitment to sustainability, the scheme is aiming to achieve a BREEAM Excellent rating and will adhere to the Considerate Constructors Scheme and Smart Waste BRE standards. Once complete, the development will provide new employment opportunities and long-term economic benefits to the local community. McLaren’s partnership with Equation Properties has been instrumental in driving the phased transformation of Matrix 49, Plot 3, a £21.6 million development spanning 13 acres. Plot 3 is currently on track to deliver a 219,660 sq. ft warehouse and 11,365 sq. ft of office space. Nearing completion, the phase showcases McLaren’s capability to manage complex site conditions, including rhine diversions and ground level improvements, while protecting local ecology. Gary Cramp, managing director of McLaren Construction Midlands and North, said: “Our continued work with Equation Properties reflects our dedication to delivering high-quality, sustainable industrial spaces. Plot 4 builds upon the success of Plot 3, contributing further to the development of this strategic site in Avonmouth. This phase presents exciting opportunities to enhance local employment while meeting the evolving needs of future tenants striving towards net zero targets.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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1.2million sq ft logistics site sold for speculative development to progress in Leicestershire

1.2million sq ft logistics site sold for speculative development to progress in Leicestershire

The Drummond Estate and Inverock have agreed a sale of an 82-acre site adjacent to the M1 and M69 in Leicester. Together they secured outline planning permission for circa 106,500 sq m of advanced warehouse and distribution space at the site, known as Enderby Logistics Hub, in September 2024. Royal London Asset Management Property, partnering with Canmoor, plans to speculatively develop 1.2 million sq ft of prime logistics space with an estimated GDV of £300m. Strategically located in the heart of the UK’s logistics ‘Golden Triangle,’ the site sits at junction 21 of the M1 and junction 3 of the M69 on the outskirts of Leicester. The development will also feature a flagship 500,000 sq ft unit to address strong occupational demand. Ultimately, Enderby Logistics Hub will help to meet the region’s pressing need for employment space and would create some 2,000 new jobs, boosting the local economy. Martin Ward, on behalf of The Drummond Estate, said: “The site offers an exceptional location, adjacent to the M1 and at the heart of the UK’s logistics golden triangle. We had an extremely high level of interest as expected and following a competitive tender process have selected Royal London Asset Management Property and Canmoor, both of which have extensive track records of high-quality developments around the country.” Mather Jamie and Cushman & Wakefield acted for the vendors. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Plans Submitted for £1bn Northern Gateway to Supercharge North West Economy

Plans Submitted for £1bn Northern Gateway to Supercharge North West Economy

A planning application has been submitted for the first phase of the transformative £1 billion Northern Gateway development, one of the largest employment-led projects ever proposed in the North of England. The scheme is being delivered by the Northern Gateway Development Vehicle – a partnership between Harworth Group and Russell LDP – and represents a major milestone in the regeneration of Greater Manchester. Spanning approximately 500 acres, the first phase alone proposes up to 6.5 million sq ft of employment space, targeting advanced manufacturing, logistics, robotics, AI, and research and development. The ambitious development is strategically located at the junction of the M60, M62 and M66 motorways and falls within the Atom Valley Mayoral Development Zone. Once fully built, the wider Northern Gateway site has the capacity to support up to 20,000 jobs and contribute an estimated £630 million annually in Gross Value Added (GVA) to the regional economy. The outline proposals submitted to Bury and Rochdale councils include flexible employment units, as well as plans for a hotel, leisure and retail facilities, green open spaces, and a connected network of walking and cycling routes. These features are designed to support a sustainable and inclusive employment hub that attracts both domestic and international investment. The site also benefits from long-term strategic planning, having been designated within Greater Manchester’s “Places for Everyone” spatial development plan. A supplementary planning document has already been approved, helping to shape a masterplan focused on innovation, sustainability and connectivity. Helen Hartley, planning associate director at Russell LDP, said: “This is a major milestone in delivering a nationally important employment destination in the North West. Northern Gateway is a transformative opportunity that will create thousands of jobs and bring long-term benefits to the region through high-quality workspace and integrated infrastructure.” Lynda Shillaw, chief executive of Harworth Group, added: “Northern Gateway will act as a catalyst for growth in the North West. By focusing on emerging sectors and high-quality industrial space, we’re creating a platform for regional expansion and global investment.” Further plans for residential development adjacent to the employment zone are also being prepared and will be subject to future public consultation. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Barberry £20 million warehouse development gets underway

Barberry £20 million warehouse development gets underway

Construction of a £20 million speculatively developed industrial and logistics unit at one of the West Midlands’ leading business parks has started, commercial property developer and investor Barberry Industrial announced today. Barberry has appointed Bromsgrove-based main contractor Benniman to deliver the development at Junction 15 of the M40 at Tournament Fields Business Park in Warwick, which is expected to generate further investment in the region and create dozens of new jobs. Barberry acquired the last remaining plot at the front of the highly sought-after business park last year and has secured reserved matters planning permission from Warwick District Council for a 92,246 sq ft Grade A ‘best in class’ distribution and logistics unit on the site. Jonathan Robinson, Barberry development director, said the development, known as Barberry Midbox 92, is expected to reach completion in Q4 2025 and is available to lease or purchase. “We are excited to announce that construction of our latest speculatively developed prime mid-box industrial and logistics building is now underway at Tournament Fields. Once again, we will be working alongside our trusted construction partner Benniman who expect to reach practical completion towards the end of this year,” said Jonathan. “The development of a best-in-class unit will help to address the ongoing shortage of new, high quality industrial accommodation in the West Midlands. New buildings such as this help to create the quality accommodation that local, regional and national businesses need to expand their operations within the Midlands. “Our speculatively developed buildings are designed to be flexible space that can be adapted to suit a wide range of occupier specific requirements while promoting sustainability, staff wellness and a high-quality environment to attract and retain staff while also appealing to occupiers to reduce their carbon footprint and deliver financial savings across their operation.” He added: “This high-quality development demonstrates Barberry’s continued commitment to the mid-box industrial logistics sector and capability in the UK market.” Christian Smith, director of Savills, said: “It’s great working on another scheme with Barberry who have the foresight to speculatively develop in this location where there are no other available opportunities for occupiers. Barberry develops market leading buildings designed to the highest standards, built with flexibility in mind to cater for occupier specific requirements. “We can also offer occupiers a unique freehold opportunity or leasehold options. We anticipate significant interest from a market starved of high quality, mid-box warehouse and production facilities on the M40 and M42 corridors.” It is described as a unique opportunity to join a number of international businesses who have made Tournament Fields their home, including Scholastic Publications, Gallagher Security, Semcon, Sodick and most recently, Hansgrohe, who took occupation of their 36,000 sq ft facility in the spring of 2023. Wareing & Company and Savills have been retained as agents. This highly visible and accessible site has the perfect combination of immediate motorway access off Junction 15 of the M40, providing a logistically superb location coupled with the prominence suitable for a HQ-style operator or customer facing business. The building will focus on sustainability and will be built to exceptional ESG standards, targeting EPC A + and BREEAM Excellent accreditation including electric vehicle charging points, solar panels, green initiatives, outdoor gym equipment and staff welfare. One of the UK’s leading developers of mid-box industrial units, Barberry simultaneously exchanged and completed the purchase of the Warwick site within 10 working days of instructing solicitors. It was bought for an undisclosed sum from Sackville Developments (Warwick) Ltd, a fully owned subsidiary of Clowes Developments (UK) Ltd. Barberry last year revealed exciting plans to develop two other high quality warehouse units in the West Midlands, demonstrating its commitment to investment in the region. In Birmingham, it plans to build a £17 million 77,000 sq ft Grade A warehouse after acquiring a high-quality site in an off-market deal at Quinton Business Park, Birmingham. The company also plans to develop an advanced manufacturing unit with a value of £11 million in Ansty, Coventry, at one of the most successful business technology parks in the UK. It will deliver a 50,750 sq ft advanced manufacturing unit at Ansty Park after completing the acquisition of the Viggen Way site from Homes England. Barberry has a 2.6 million sq ft industrial/logistics development pipeline with a Gross Development Value of more than £430 million and a growing income-producing commercial portfolio, delivering sustainable returns. The company also has 520 acres of strategically located residential and employment development land, capable of delivering 3,500 new homes including a 288 build-to-rent (BTR) apartment scheme in the heart of Coventry city centre. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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