Developers claim that more than 3,000 additional permanent jobs will be created once the project is completed Construction has commenced in Wellingborough on the first commercial phase to be delivered at the £1bn Stanton Cross development to the east of the town centre. St Modwen Park logistics scheme will provide
Firethorn Trust has acquired a substantial site at Sherburn-in-Elmet in Leeds, as it continues to grow its national logistics portfolio. The 37-acre logistics site forms part of the wider Sherburn2 scheme, which spans 75-acres and is owned by Yorkshire-based development and investment company, Glentrool Estates Group Ltd. Firethorn has now
An international flooring designer, manufacturer and distributor has announced plans to move part of its UK operations to the Worcester Six Business Park as it looks to grow the business. Worcestershire-based Victoria PLC, the UK’s largest flooring manufacturer and distributor, has specified leading developer Stoford to deliver a bespoke unit
Panattoni, the largest industrial real estate developer in Europe, is working up plans for a 202,200 sq ft speculative, last-mile logistics development in Crawley. The development, called Panattoni Park Crawley, is located in the established industrial area of Manor Royal Business District on a 10-acre brownfield site on Fleming Way,
The first Firethorn Trust UK development, called Northampton Cross, has been fully-leased by MH Star UK, who will occupy the 37-acre scheme from October 2021. The e-commerce retailer has signed a 15-year tenancy on the two units, which span a total of 354,000 sq. ft. MH Star UK, a specialist
Hörmann UK have announced the launch of a new, thermally efficient telescopic dock leveller the HTL2 ISO which provides up to 55% improved thermal insulation when compared to a standard dock leveller in both closed and loading positions. Used in conjunction with their new slimline recess profiled sectional door it
The projects will see the construction of a new 196,000 sq ft build to suit manufacturing facility for Stovax at a site in Exeter in addition to a 89,000 sq ft industrial distribution unit for Furniturebox at a site in Chippenham. Glencar, an expanding construction company specialising in the industrial,
Caddick Construction has completed on Panattoni’s Wakefield515 scheme, the largest speculative development in the north for 10 years. The 515,820 sq ft warehouse facility is located to adjacent to TK Maxx Regional Distribution Centre, also built by Caddick, at the M62 and A1(M) junction. Wakefield515 has already been snapped up
Virtual marketing consultancy doubles office footprint at the Enterprise Centre Moorfield Group, the owner and landlord of Aberdeen Energy and Innovation Parks (the “Parks”), has concluded a relocation and upsizing lease with Prospect 13, the virtual marketing consultancy owned and managed by communications guru Cerri McDonald. Having been based at
Icon Industrial, a strategic joint venture by leading commercial property developer, Stoford and private global investment firm, TPG Real Estate, has completed the first of two new Grade A warehouse developments in Harlow. The JV has delivered Unit D, a bespoke last mile distribution unit of 84,407 sq ft
Developers claim that more than 3,000 additional permanent jobs will be created once the project is completed Construction has commenced in Wellingborough on the first commercial phase to be delivered at the £1bn Stanton Cross development to the east of the town centre. St Modwen Park logistics scheme will provide warehousing and distribution units with the first phase providing three separate buildings between 44,000 sq ft and 172,000 sq ft. Two of the units will be built speculatively and will be ready at the end of the year, while the third unit is available on a built to suit basis – with further opportunities in phases two and three. Stanton Cross will create about 300 jobs a year over the construction period, and developers claim that more than 3,000 additional permanent jobs will be created once the project is completed. Lee Barrett, divisional operations director for Vistry Group and a representative of Stanton Cross Developments (SCD) LLP, promoters of the Stanton Cross project, said: “We are thrilled that construction is now underway on the first phase of St Modwen Park at Wellingborough. “This incredibly important milestone is a major step towards the creation of a thriving commercial hub at Stanton Cross which will unlock employment opportunities for Northamptonshire residents. “These are high specification units, strategically located with excellent connectivity and, although we have just broken ground on site, we are already experiencing high levels of interest from a range of occupiers.” The first commercial units have planning permission for storage and distribution usage, with warehouse facilities on the ground floor and an open plan office and kitchenette on the first floor, with a range of bespoke fitout options also available. Externally, each individual unit has a dedicated secure service yard, private parking and loading area, as well as sustainable features such as electric car charging points and photovoltaic roof panels. Ben Silcock, development and leasing manager at St Modwen Logistics, said: “St Modwen Park Wellingborough at Stanton Cross forms part of our continued strategy to strengthen our a high-quality industrial and logistics portfolio across the UK. “The units built at the scheme will benefit from our Swan Standard guidelines – which ensures each St. Modwen site is supplemented with park enhancements across five key areas; transport, security, environment, wellbeing of those who work on and visit sites, and importantly, the surrounding community. “We are pleased to be working alongside our partners, SCD, in bringing forward the first phase of development and look forward to playing our part in creating a great place to live, work and visit.” Stanton Cross is a £1 billion residential-led development to the east of Wellingborough which will eventually include 3,650 new homes alongside new leisure and retail amenities and commercial space – including offices, industrial space, and a trade park.
Firethorn Trust has acquired a substantial site at Sherburn-in-Elmet in Leeds, as it continues to grow its national logistics portfolio. The 37-acre logistics site forms part of the wider Sherburn2 scheme, which spans 75-acres and is owned by Yorkshire-based development and investment company, Glentrool Estates Group Ltd. Firethorn has now exchanged contracts with Glentrool, in a deal that will allow the delivery of up to 660,000 sq. ft. of new logistics warehousing across one or multiple buildings, suited to a range of occupiers, from SMEs to larger manufacturing and distribution companies. Situated within an established commercial and industrial location at Junction 42 of the A1(M), the new site lies immediately adjacent to Sherburn Enterprise Park, which is home to several large multi-national occupiers including L&G Modular Homes, Eddie Stobart, Sainsburys and Clipper Logistics. The scheme provides excellent connectivity throughout the UK, with close proximity to Leeds, the M1 and M62, coastal ports of Hull and Grimsby and regional rail and airports. Dan Green, Associate Director at Firethorn Trust, commented: “We are very pleased to have exchanged contracts to acquire this impressive 37-acre site in Sherburn-in-Elmet, which we believe will be a strong addition to our growing UK logistics portfolio. “It provides an excellent opportunity to add new, institutional quality warehousing to our existing pipeline in a strong local market experiencing record levels of demand and take-up, and historically low vacancy rates and supply levels. “As occupiers continue to adapt their supply chain and distribution models to fit the post-Covid economy, demand is expected to remain at these levels in the medium term, whilst the increased drive to e-commerce is further fuelling occupational demand. “This acquisition is another example of our strategic approach to identify sites in strong locations across the UK for development and unlock opportunities to deliver modern, high-quality warehousing solutions, highly-sustainable schemes and economic benefits for the wider region.” Jeremy Nolan, a director of Glentrool says: “We are delighted to have brought this site to an advanced state of readiness, delivering a serviced plot that will enable Firethorn to swiftly develop high quality units for occupiers. “The wider Sherburn2 site has excellent road and rail links and, given the neighbouring Sherburn Enterprise Park is already home to significant multi-nationals, we anticipate Firethorn will enjoy great success in attracting similarly prestigious occupiers.” Firethorn Trust was advised by Lambert Smith Hampton and Stephenson Harwood and Glentrool was represented by Colliers International and Carter Towler.
An international flooring designer, manufacturer and distributor has announced plans to move part of its UK operations to the Worcester Six Business Park as it looks to grow the business. Worcestershire-based Victoria PLC, the UK’s largest flooring manufacturer and distributor, has specified leading developer Stoford to deliver a bespoke unit at the business park, which will house one of its businesses, Alliance Flooring Distribution. Stoford has this week submitted a planning application to Wychavon District Council for a 180,121 sq ft unit for the company, which has been a major employer in Kidderminster since 1900 and has agreed a 15-year lease for unit 7. The facility is expanding its existing locations and will be operational in Q4 2022. Edward Peel, Development Manager for Stoford, said both Stoford and Victoria PLC are committed to reducing their carbon footprint. To achieve that, the base build of the unit will be net carbon zero in operation and will feature extensive electric vehicle charging points and photovoltaic panels on the roof. Two new ponds are also being created as part of the build, which will help to further improve the green infrastructure on the business park, providing an attractive setting and new wildlife habitats. “Attracting yet another global player to Worcester Six is a real success story,” he said. “The building of unit 7 will enable Victoria PLC to continue its growth plans, which can only be good news for the local economy. We’re looking forward to working closely with it as we develop its plans for a sustainable new base. “Worcester Six is living up to its reputation as a game-changer development. Ambitious businesses are keen to come here and take advantage of the strategic location, the high quality builds and the attractive environment that the business park sits in.” Philippe Hamers, CEO for Victoria PLC, said a new, bespoke building for Alliances UK headquarters will future-proof the business and allow the continued growth of the Victoria PLC brand portfolio and its third party customers. It hopes to create an additional 60 jobs over the next five years. “This move will allow us to further develop and grow our workforce using local skills and we are hoping to develop a work experience and apprenticeship scheme in the next two years to complement this and aid our continued growth,” he said. “The location of Worcester Six is perfect. This gives immediate access to the motorway network. Combine this with how long we have been an employer in this area, the local workforce who have great experience in flooring and the fact that we are able to future-proof our business by building a fit for purpose headquarters in an attractive setting with all of the green credentials we are striving for, offers an exciting future for us.” In the past three years, Worcester Six has welcomed Marmon Food and Beverage Equipment, Siemens, Spire Healthcare, Kimal, Kohler Mira and IONOS. Victoria PLC was advised by Brasier Freeth and Stoford by BNP Paribas and Harris Lamb. For details about the scheme and other units that can be provided, contact the agent: Charles D’Auncey at Harris Lamb – charles.dauncey@harrislamb.com or Ben Wiley at BNP Paribas – ben.wiley@realestate.bnpparibas
Panattoni, the largest industrial real estate developer in Europe, is working up plans for a 202,200 sq ft speculative, last-mile logistics development in Crawley. The development, called Panattoni Park Crawley, is located in the established industrial area of Manor Royal Business District on a 10-acre brownfield site on Fleming Way, which Panattoni has just acquired from Aberdeen Standard Investments. Panattoni is aiming to submit an outline planning application in the fourth quarter of this year, with a view to beginning demolition and construction in the first half of 2022 and completing in the first quarter of 2023. Panattoni will aim to pre-let the space, which could either be one unit of 202,200 sq ft or two units. The development is part of Panattoni’s commitment to a significant speculative development programme in the UK in 2021 in response to strong demand from occupiers for immediately available space. In the south, Panattoni has acquired or progressed nearly 10 million sq ft of developments since the onset of Covid in March 2020. Panattoni Park Crawley is located in an established distribution location adjacent to London Gatwick Airport. It covers an area of 540 acres and is home to more than 600 businesses generating 30,000 jobs. Tony Watkins, Development Director at Panattoni, said: “This is a rare opportunity to acquire such a well-located site, as land in the south east for building a logistics facility of this scale is very scarce. This is a great site for accessing London”. Letting agents are JLL and Savills.
The first Firethorn Trust UK development, called Northampton Cross, has been fully-leased by MH Star UK, who will occupy the 37-acre scheme from October 2021. The e-commerce retailer has signed a 15-year tenancy on the two units, which span a total of 354,000 sq. ft. MH Star UK, a specialist in home, outdoor, office, pet and children’s products sold by several in-house brands, has experienced rapid growth over the last year, accelerated by the consumer shift to e-commerce following the Covid-19 pandemic. “As more consumers adapt their spending habits and shift to e-commerce, it has been increasingly important for us to source high-quality warehousing solutions so that we can effectively respond to ever-increasing demand. Northampton Cross delivered on every aspect, from modern, flexible office spaces to renewable energy provisions and welfare facilities for employees,” said Arvind Panchmatia, General Manager at MH Star. “It has been a pleasure working with Firethorn Trust, and we are delighted to be leasing both units at the scheme. This new site will put us in a strong position to drive forward MH Star UK’s expansion as the business continues to grow and evolve.” The new site, which is located directly off Junction 15A of the M1 and offers enhanced access to the UK motorway network, will put the retailer in prime position for continued expansion, whilst bringing a boost to the local jobs market. “MH Star’s tenancy is an incredibly exciting milestone for Firethorn. Northampton Cross is the first UK development opportunity that we acquired, we are proud to have agreed such a significant lease within a year of bringing the scheme to market, and prior to its completion in October,” added Chris Webb, Partner at Firethorn Trust. “This deal underpins Firethorn’s ongoing commitment to creating highly-specified, modern and adaptable industrial and logistics solutions in strategic locations across the UK, to help connect businesses, people and places.” Firethorn Trust has a current development pipeline of more than 3m sq. ft. nationwide, including an eight-unit scheme at Ascent Logistics Park in Leighton Buzzard, which will be available for occupation later this year. Knight Frank acted for MH Star, while Lambert Smith Hampton & DTRE acted for Firethorn Trust.
Hörmann UK have announced the launch of a new, thermally efficient telescopic dock leveller the HTL2 ISO which provides up to 55% improved thermal insulation when compared to a standard dock leveller in both closed and loading positions. Used in conjunction with their new slimline recess profiled sectional door it offers operators of temperature-controlled facilities the most energy efficient dock leveller and door combination on the market. Pre-assembled with a 50mm insulation panel fitted below the platform, the HTL2 ISO also offers a unique, patent pending insulated panel under the moving lip. The lip features a 390mm overlap length which ensures easy bridging of the gap between the leveller and lorry, offering flexible loading options whilst maintaining ambient temperatures. All grooves, gap seals and vertical edges are optimally sealed to ensure that no heat transference is possible at these points. The HTL2 ISO is available in standard sizes up to 3000mm in length and has a standard rated load of 60 kN. The Hörmann new slimline recess profiled sectional door is equipped with a suspended bottom section making it suitable for loading bays with door operation in front of the dock leveller. When in the closed position the bottom seal of the door rests on the insulated panel of the dock leveller, ensuring consistent thermal insulation. Optimum sealing is achieved with the door being raised and lowered via a guide channel and a central sealing unit. Phil Thorpe, Industrial Division Manager at Hörmann UK comments, “The introduction of the HTL2 ISO dock leveller, along with the new slimline recess profiled sectional door means we now can offer developers and operators a market beating combination of Hörmann quality and reliability, together with excellent thermal insulation properties. Once again, Hörmann have responded to changing operational needs and developed products that are unique to the market, we can proudly say ‘only from Hörmann’.” To view information of Hörmann loading technology visit Loading Technology from Hörmann UK (hormann.co.uk) or call 01530 516868 to be added to our mailing list.
The projects will see the construction of a new 196,000 sq ft build to suit manufacturing facility for Stovax at a site in Exeter in addition to a 89,000 sq ft industrial distribution unit for Furniturebox at a site in Chippenham. Glencar, an expanding construction company specialising in the industrial, logistics, distribution, manufacturing, life science and pharmaceutical sectors has today announced that it has been awarded two new project instructions by logistics and industrial specialist St. Modwen Logistics at strategic development sites in Exeter and Chippenham. At the site in Exeter within St Modwen’s Skypark Development in Clyst Honiton, Glencar will construct a 196,000 sq ft build to suit manufacturing facility for Stovax – the UK’s largest stove and fireplace producer. In addition to the base build works Glencar will undertake Cat A and Cat B fit out together with associated external works. At the site at St Modwen Park in Chippenham, Glencar will undertake the construction of a single unit of 89,000 sq ft of industrial distribution and storage space, complete with integral offices, internal plant deck and associated external works for online furniture specialist Furniturebox. Both projects are due to commence shortly and be completed during Q2 2021. Speaking about the double appointment Glencar Managing Director Eddie McGillycuddy said: “We are absolutely delighted to receive our first, inaugural double project instruction from leading industrial and logistics specialist St. Modwen Logistics to construct two new build to suit projects at key sites within their expanding U.K. portfolio. Glencar is widely recognised as an expert in the construction of high quality and bespoke industrial and logistics facilities and we look forward to working with the project teams on each development to deliver to the standard our customers have come to expect.” Also talking about the projects Steven Smith Construction Director St. Modwen Logistics said “We are absolutely delighted to be welcoming Stovax and Furniturebox to two of our most high-profile developments in Exeter and Chippenham respectively. We are pleased to award the contract to build both developments (built to suit) to Glencar who presented an excellent set of credentials and who come with a very strong pedigree. We look forward to working with them and the broader project team and delivering each building to the customers exacting specification” So far this year, Glencar has been instructed upon new projects in excess of £175M for new and existing customers across the industrial, logistics, manufacturing, retail, mixed use and pharmaceutical sectors including various base build, refurbishment and fit-out instructions.
Caddick Construction has completed on Panattoni’s Wakefield515 scheme, the largest speculative development in the north for 10 years. The 515,820 sq ft warehouse facility is located to adjacent to TK Maxx Regional Distribution Centre, also built by Caddick, at the M62 and A1(M) junction. Wakefield515 has already been snapped up by Amazon thanks to its strategic location which offers access to major cities and ports across the north of England. Up to 500 full-time jobs will be created and £5.5 million injected into the local economy as a result of Wakefield515 becoming fully operational. Situated on a 28-acre plot, Wakefield515 was specifically designed to offer maximum flexibility for logistics and distribution businesses. The cross-docked warehouse provides generous yards of up to 100m and will incorporate sustainable features, such as rainwater harvesting systems, a PV ready roof and LED motion sensor lighting. The building has been built to a BREEAM rating of ‘Very Good’ and EPC rating of ‘A’. Chris Wilson, Commercial Development Director at Caddick Construction, said: “This was a landmark project for the region as well as Caddick Construction and it’s great news that Wakefield515 secured an occupier even before it was fully completed. That’s testament to the site’s superb location as well as the sustainable design features and quality build that makes it an ideal hub for any logistical client. He added: “This speculative build was announced at the height of the pandemic last year but Panattoni had the foresight and ambition to realise a successful logistics scheme here at Wakefield515 and Caddick Construction had the expertise to deliver it on time and we are delighted with the result.” Ian Anderson, Head of Project Management at Panattoni, said: “Our latest completed development has gone extremely smoothly despite all the challenges everyone has seen in the last 14 months. The Caddick team integrated with Panattoni to ensure a high-quality facility that had occupiers interested very early on. We are delighted to have finished and let another successful speculative development, adding to the ambitious construction portfolio underway currently by Panattoni in the UK.”
Virtual marketing consultancy doubles office footprint at the Enterprise Centre Moorfield Group, the owner and landlord of Aberdeen Energy and Innovation Parks (the “Parks”), has concluded a relocation and upsizing lease with Prospect 13, the virtual marketing consultancy owned and managed by communications guru Cerri McDonald. Having been based at the James Gregory Centre on the Innovation Park for the past two years, Prospect 13 has now relocated to a larger, more modern office suite in the Enterprise Centre on the Energy Park, located in Bridge of Don. The business has agreed a three-year lease for the ground floor Unit G3, which can accommodate up to eight people and includes an element of collaboration space. Cerri McDonald, Managing Director, Prospect 13, said: “We are excited to have settled into our new, larger office in the Enterprise Centre. This office move represents a key milestone for our fast-growing company as we continue to deliver an increasingly diverse subscription-based service to new and existing customers. The expansion comes after a 55% growth in the last 12 months despite lockdown, meaning we had outgrown our previous premises. “The new bespoke office space better accommodates our ever-expanding creative team and offers a modern, open environment with easy connection to the city and local amenities. We have such a positive relationship with the Aberdeen Energy & Innovation Parks team so we were keen to remain with them and feel optimistic about what the future holds for Prospect 13.” Hugh Canham, Head of Asset Management at Moorfield Group, added “It is always exciting to see an occupier grow and develop with us here at the Parks. Prospect 13 is a great example of a dynamic local business that is working hard, thriving, expanding and capitalising on the opportunities presented in the current market. We wish the Prospect 13 team continued success in their new base at the Enterprise Centre. “Aberdeen Energy & Innovation Parks offer a variety of office solutions, including serviced offices, co-working space and virtual offices, all with competitive and flexible lease terms, which give our occupiers the opportunity to expand as their business develops. The Parks are set to benefit from the post-pandemic rise in demand for flexible serviced workspaces, providing the convenience and technology required to enable agile workforces to flourish.” Prospect 13 was established in 2018, and in that time the business has gone from strength to strength with an impressive and growing client base. The company works with small local organisations to deliver on-demand access to a wide range of strategic and hands-on marketing services, tailored to suit specific business and growth challenges. The company recently joined forces with Cornerstone Consulting, managed by Sally Cassidy, to bring sales enablement and leadership expertise within the in-house capabilities. Aberdeen Energy & Innovation Parks comprise 200,000 sq ft of multi-let office and industrial space for more than 80 companies and a workforce of nearly 2,000 employees. Located just minutes from Aberdeen city centre, the Parks offer a range of flexible workspaces and high-end facilities for businesses of all sizes. Knight Frank and Ryden are joint agents for Aberdeen Energy & Innovation Parks.
Icon Industrial, a strategic joint venture by leading commercial property developer, Stoford and private global investment firm, TPG Real Estate, has completed the first of two new Grade A warehouse developments in Harlow. The JV has delivered Unit D, a bespoke last mile distribution unit of 84,407 sq ft at Icon Harlow in Essex, on behalf of an international online retailer. The new building is part of phase two Icon Harlow, providing almost 200,000 sq ft of much needed Grade A warehouse accommodation for the London-Stansted-Cambridge corridor. A second unit (E) is under construction on a speculative basis, with completion scheduled for October 2021. The Grade A unit will extend to 112,000 sq ft and provides the rare opportunity to occupy one of the only available buildings over 100,000 sq ft in the north M25. Phase one of Icon Harlow completed last year and comprised three highly specified units, including two speculatively constructed. All three units are now occupied and extend to 244,258 sq ft. Angus Huntley, Director at Stoford, said: “Icon Harlow has attracted significant interest from distributors looking for much needed quality warehouse and logistics accommodation in the home counties, but with quick access to London and the wider South East. The final unit (E) will provide Grade A accommodation with enhanced sustainability credentials, including PV arrays and 20% EV car charging provision. We have the opportunity to offer occupiers early access to the warehouse from the end of September 2021.” Icon Harlow is conveniently located in close proximity to Harlow town centre and benefits from excellent road, rail, air and sea links. The development lies a short drive from junction 27 of the M25, just 17 miles from London Stansted Airport, 30 miles north of central London and 34 miles from DP World’s London Gateway Port. Existing occupiers include SOP International, Verhoek Europe and leading arts and crafts supplier, Baker Ross. For all enquiries, please contact the scheme’s retained agents: DTRE, JLL and M1 Agency.
