Real estate investor and developer, Firethorn Trust, has made its first acquisition under its Living platform with the purchase of a purpose built student accommodation (PBSA) site in Leith, Edinburgh. Forming part of the Leith Walk regeneration scheme promoted by Calder Weir Properties, part of the site was purchased with
Real estate investor and developer, Firethorn Trust, has revealed the level of community impact created as it reaches the first anniversary of its charity partnership with Groundwork UK. As part of Firethorn’s commitment to ESG, a grant of more than £310,000 was issued to Groundwork in 2022, establishing a charitable
Real estate developer, Firethorn Trust, has secured the final letting at Ascent Logistics Park, a net-zero logistics development in Leighton Buzzard. Firethorn Trust is acting as asset and development manager on behalf of the scheme’s owner, privately-held investment firm, Cain International. All eight units are now let at Ascent Logistics
Real estate developer, Firethorn Trust, has reached a significant milestone at Barnsley340, a 24-acre logistics development owned by Cain International, with structural steelwork now in place. Firethorn Trust is acting as asset and development manager for the South Yorkshire scheme on behalf of the privately held investment firm, Cain International.
Firethorn Trust, a leading commercial real estate investor and developer, has announced the successful leasing of two of its three industrial units at Peterborough South. The development, which is located just six minutes from Junction 17 of the A1(M) and adjacent to Fletton Parkway, is set to achieve practical completion
Commercial real estate investor and developer, Firethorn Trust, has appointed McLaren Construction Group to deliver 660,000 sq. ft of logistics warehousing in North Yorkshire. The contract for Sherburn42 marks McLaren’s first appointment to a Firethorn development, and will see the delivery of four highly specified Grade-A units, ranging from 57,750
Commercial real estate investor and developer, Firethorn Trust, has appointed McLaren Construction Group to deliver 660,000 sq ft of logistics warehousing in North Yorkshire. The contract for Sherburn42 marks McLaren’s first appointment to a Firethorn development, and will see the delivery of four highly specified Grade-A units, ranging from 57,750
Commercial real estate investor and developer, Firethorn Trust has appointed Glencar, a construction company specialising in industrial, logistics, distribution and manufacturing, to deliver a 340,000 sq ft logistics warehousing scheme in South Yorkshire. The 24-acre site, called Barnsley340, will include a Grade-A warehouse unit spanning 320,000 sq ft, along with
Commercial real estate investor and developer, Firethorn Trust, has been given planning consent to deliver 660,000 sq ft of logistics warehousing in North Yorkshire. Sitting adjacent to the Sherburn Enterprise Park in Leeds, Firethorn’s 37-acre scheme will comprise four highly specified Grade-A units, delivered to net-zero carbon in construction. With
FIRETHORN TRUST LAYS THE GROUND FOR SUSTAINABLE INNOVATION WITH CARBON-SAVING AT PETERBOROUGH DEVELOPMENT In line with Firethorn’s commitment to be a market leader in sustainable development, the three-unit scheme will feature innovative products and an advanced specification for occupiers, setting the standard for future logistics. As part of its ongoing
BDC 319 : Aug 2024
Real estate investor and developer, Firethorn Trust, has made its first acquisition under its Living platform with the purchase of a purpose built student accommodation (PBSA) site in Leith, Edinburgh. Forming part of the Leith Walk regeneration scheme promoted by Calder Weir Properties, part of the site was purchased with planning permission to create a PBSA block and three commercial units. Firethorn will develop the six-storey building to provide high quality accommodation for 230 student beds and generous amenities, including a fully-equipped gym, modern study spaces and student common rooms. The design specification, which was enhanced by Firethorn’s innovative use of AI technology, will feature sustainable elements to meet BREEAM ‘Excellent’ and EPC ‘A’ ratings, including photovoltaic (PV) panels. The wider Leith Walk development has planning permission for two five-storey residential units that will provide a mix of build-to-rent (BTR) and affordable housing. The owner has engaged Firethorn Living along with Calder Weir Properties to assist with the delivery of these residential units. This is the first deal for Firethorn under its Living platform, which was launched in 2023 following the appointment of Marcus Weeks as Director and Head of Living. Marcus, who has more than a decade of experience in acquiring and developing PBSA assets, commented: “Previously an underutilised brownfield site, the scheme is located in an area that continues to be the focus of major investment, driven by the recent opening of an adjacent tram line, which has significantly enhanced connectivity to the centre of Edinburgh. “As our first acquisition for Firethorn Living, the scale and quality of this project represents our ambitious strategy to invest in prime university cities and help to address the growing supply and demand imbalance for modern student accommodation, whilst making a positive contribution to local regeneration. “Firethorn is very well capitalised and our dedicated, in-house Living and development teams are actively seeking more deal opportunities in the sector to add to our growing pipeline. The PBSA and BTR markets offer strong potential for growth and we look forward to expanding our portfolio with future acquisitions in prime locations across the UK.” Work on site is expected to commence in the summer and is due to complete for the 2026/27 year. For more information, visit www.firethorntrust.com Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Real estate investor and developer, Firethorn Trust, has revealed the level of community impact created as it reaches the first anniversary of its charity partnership with Groundwork UK. As part of Firethorn’s commitment to ESG, a grant of more than £310,000 was issued to Groundwork in 2022, establishing a charitable programme of activity that focused on tackling some of the most pressing issues facing the local communities Firethorn builds within – from food security, to unemployment, education and access to green space. In the first 12 months, the project has engaged with more than 500 school children and 450 families, provided 293 meals and recorded 168 volunteer hours across the country, as part of regionally-led initiatives in Leighton Buzzard, Peterborough, Ellesmere Port, Sherburn-in-Elmet, Barnsley, Northampton and London. Each of the seven bespoke projects have been designed to address issues specifically within the area of development, ensuring Firethorn’s investment is making a real and long-lasting impact to communities and individuals across the UK. The programme has so far achieved: Peter Mather, Partner at Firethorn Trust, said: “From supporting education projects to tackling the challenges of food poverty, we’re incredibly proud of the programme and what we’ve achieved so far. The partnership has allowed us to take a brand-new approach to delivering real, tangible ESG impact – working in close collaboration with community leaders to provide support where it’s needed most. Community benefit is placed at the heart of every Firethorn development and this important project is bringing that commitment to life.” Groundwork is a federation of charities mobilising practical community action on poverty and environment across the UK. Graham Duxbury, Chief Executive at Groundwork UK, said: “We’re delighted to work in partnership with Firethorn, and it’s been fantastic to see our teams deliver such significant impact via the programme – from young people in urban areas being better connected with nature, volunteers improving outdoor spaces for food growing and young people and unemployed adults gaining experience and qualifications to bolster their future prospects. “There’s more work to do and I’ve no doubt that our partnership will continue to deliver lasting change in communities across the country that are too often overlooked.” Firethorn’s ESG strategy is informed and guided by two leading industry standards – the One Planet Living Framework and the values of the UK Green Building Council. For more information, visit www.firethorntrust.com Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Real estate developer, Firethorn Trust, has secured the final letting at Ascent Logistics Park, a net-zero logistics development in Leighton Buzzard. Firethorn Trust is acting as asset and development manager on behalf of the scheme’s owner, privately-held investment firm, Cain International. All eight units are now let at Ascent Logistics Park, with the final 48,639 sq ft unit to be occupied by Next plc, the British multinational clothing, home and beauty products retailer. The 25.5-acre industrial development comprises highly-specified Grade A logistics space – ranging from 14,533 to 125,510 sq ft – and has attracted occupiers from a variety of sectors. Next plc joins existing tenants AS Colour, HCA UK, Tate Business Group, Spreetail, Airbox UK, Solution EU and Stone Hardy at the scheme, which reached completion last May. Accredited by the UK Green Building Council for its net-zero carbon construction, Ascent Logistics Park is rated BREEAM ‘Excellent’ and offers a modern, future-proof specification that will provide tangible and long-lasting benefits for both occupiers and the environment. Chris Beer, Senior Associate at Firethorn Trust, said: “We’ve worked in close collaboration with every occupier to ensure they can benefit from a high-quality and flexible warehousing space, which is designed to fully support their operational requirements, strengthen future business plans and empower their ESG commitments. Ascent is a bold, ambitious and forward-thinking development that will place every tenant in a prime position for growth.” Tim Brazier, Senior Vice President at Cain International, said: “We’re delighted to reach this significant milestone at Ascent Logistics Park, with the scheme fully let within 12 months of completion. Ascent’s popularity with such a diverse range of tenants reflects the scheme’s excellent specification, underpinning our belief that high quality spaces with a focus on sustainability will continue to thrive in a competitive market.” For more information, visit www.ascentlogisticspark.co.uk
Real estate developer, Firethorn Trust, has reached a significant milestone at Barnsley340, a 24-acre logistics development owned by Cain International, with structural steelwork now in place. Firethorn Trust is acting as asset and development manager for the South Yorkshire scheme on behalf of the privately held investment firm, Cain International. This latest update marks a major milestone for the development, which will be ready for occupation in Q3 2023. Providing 340,000 sq. ft of prime industrial space, Barnsley340 is being delivered by Glencar Construction, which specialises in industrial, logistics, distribution and manufacturing. It marks Glencar’s third contract from Firethorn, following previous appointments to the developer’s logistics sites in Erith and Peterborough. With a sharp focus on sustainability, Barnsley340 will be constructed to net-zero, with BREEAM “Excellent” and EPC “A” ratings. A best-in-class specification, including 15% rooflight coverage, 32 EV parking points and full LED lighting, will create a modern logistics space, designed with the future in mind. Paul Martin, Development Director at Firethorn Trust, said: “It’s fantastic to see such swift progress being made at Barnsley340, as we work to deliver an industry-leading scheme for the region. Barnsley is now recognised as an area of opportunity, boasting a strong record of inward investment and business growth that is expected to increase as part of ongoing regeneration. “With an excellent specification, Barnsley340 has been designed to put the occupier in prime position for future growth, with the benefit of a modern and flexible warehousing space that can meet their operational needs, now and in the future. It has been great to work with Glencar once again to create a successful logistics scheme that hits the Firethorn standard and delivers real impact for our occupiers and the wider region, whilst maintaining our commitment to sustainability.” Situated within the established Gateway36 development, Barnsley340 is located less than one mile from J36 of the M1 and provides excellent connectivity across the Yorkshire region, with direct motorway access to Leeds, Sheffield and Nottingham For more information, contact the scheme’s agents, Gent Visick and Knight Frank, or visit www.barnsley340.co.uk. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Firethorn Trust, a leading commercial real estate investor and developer, has announced the successful leasing of two of its three industrial units at Peterborough South. The development, which is located just six minutes from Junction 17 of the A1(M) and adjacent to Fletton Parkway, is set to achieve practical completion in the first quarter of 2023. The largest warehouse at the site, measuring 240,830 square feet, has been leased on a 10-year tenancy to a publicly-listed UK housebuilding company, while FreshLinc, a specialist in the transport and supply chain management of fresh, chilled, and horticultural products, has taken a 139,915 square foot space on a 15-year lease. Constructed to meet net-zero carbon standards and rated BREEAM “Excellent,” the development at Peterborough South is a standout example of sustainability in the industrial sector. The property also features PrimX jointless concrete floors, which are designed to increase safety, reduce costs, and improve high-load resistance over time. Chris Beer, Senior Associate at Firethorn Trust, commented on the milestone achieved at Peterborough South: “These tenancies mark an important milestone at Peterborough South, not only as the development is now two-thirds towards full occupation, but it is also the first in the UK to feature PrimX jointless concrete floors, which are designed to save money, enhance safety and increase high-load resistance over time. “Both companies are leaders in their respective industries, and their moves to Peterborough South is demonstrative of our commitment to providing occupiers with the best facilities for their specific needs, whilst investing in best-in-class products and market-leading innovations.” Paul McCarthy, Operation Director at FreshLinc Group, added: “Our strategically located sites mean that we can offer a variety of distribution services, regardless of destination, volume and lead time. It has been a pleasure working with Firethorn, and we are delighted to be growing our presence within the UK network from this new Peterborough hub which will operate under our FLX Ambient Division.” Savills and Lambert Smith Hampton acted on behalf of Firethorn Trust during the leasing process, while Knight Frank represented the listed housebuilding company. FreshLinc was unrepresented. The development at Peterborough South still has one remaining unit, measuring 94,225 square feet, which is available for leasing. More information about the development can be found at www.peterboroughsouth.co.uk. Building, Design and Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Commercial real estate investor and developer, Firethorn Trust, has appointed McLaren Construction Group to deliver 660,000 sq. ft of logistics warehousing in North Yorkshire. The contract for Sherburn42 marks McLaren’s first appointment to a Firethorn development, and will see the delivery of four highly specified Grade-A units, ranging from 57,750 to 280,000 sq. ft. Set across 37 acres, the site lies adjacent to the Sherburn Enterprise Park in Leeds, and will be constructed to net-zero carbon, with a ‘Excellent’ BREEAM rating. With 15% translucent roof panelling, LED lighting, and future provisions for renewable power generation, the development will offer a modern, flexible and highly sustainable base for occupiers, whilst providing excellent transportation links to the UK logistics network. Paul Martin, Development Director at Firethorn, commented: “We pride ourselves in creating industry-leading schemes for occupiers, whilst effectively responding to evolving market demands. Not only does McLaren have the expert capability to bring Sherburn42 forward at pace, but the team has demonstrated a shared commitment to quality, sustainability and innovation. “Having received full planning consent last month, we look forward to moving this project forward with McLaren and beginning works on site imminently, which will put us on track for completion by Q4 2023.” Gary Cramp, managing director of McLaren Construction Midlands & North, says: “We are very pleased to be appointed by forward-thinking developers, Firethorn, on this significant development, situated in one of the most sought-after, accessible locations in North Yorkshire. “Providing fantastic opportunities for the region’s workforce, the four high-quality Grade-A industrial units will create an attractive, fit for purpose, sustainable workspace for multi-national distributors and ambitious small and medium-sized enterprises.” “We look forward to building a long-lasting relationship with Firethorn, and working closely to deliver this landmark project.” Enquiries should be directed to the scheme’s letting agents: Colliers, Lambert Smith Hampton, and Carter Towler. Building, Design and Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Commercial real estate investor and developer, Firethorn Trust, has appointed McLaren Construction Group to deliver 660,000 sq ft of logistics warehousing in North Yorkshire. The contract for Sherburn42 marks McLaren’s first appointment to a Firethorn development, and will see the delivery of four highly specified Grade-A units, ranging from 57,750 to 280,000 sq ft. Set across 37 acres, the site lies adjacent to the Sherburn Enterprise Park in Leeds, and will be constructed to net-zero carbon, with a ‘Excellent’ BREEAM rating. With 15% translucent roof panelling, LED lighting, and future provisions for renewable power generation, the development will offer a modern, flexible and highly sustainable base for occupiers, whilst providing excellent transportation links to the UK logistics network. Paul Martin, Development Director at Firethorn, commented: “We pride ourselves in creating industry-leading schemes for occupiers, whilst effectively responding to evolving market demands. Not only does McLaren have the expert capability to bring Sherburn42 forward at pace, but the team has demonstrated a shared commitment to quality, sustainability and innovation. “Having received full planning consent last month, we look forward to moving this project forward with McLaren and beginning works on site imminently, which will put us on track for completion by Q4 2023.” Gary Cramp, managing director of McLaren Construction Midlands & North, says: “We are very pleased to be appointed by forward-thinking developers, Firethorn, on this significant development, situated in one of the most sought-after, accessible locations in North Yorkshire. “Providing fantastic opportunities for the region’s workforce, the four high-quality Grade-A industrial units will create an attractive, fit for purpose, sustainable workspace for multi-national distributors and ambitious small and medium-sized enterprises.” “We look forward to building a long-lasting relationship with Firethorn, and working closely to deliver this landmark project.” Enquiries should be directed to the scheme’s letting agents: Colliers, Lambert Smith Hampton, and Carter Towler. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Commercial real estate investor and developer, Firethorn Trust has appointed Glencar, a construction company specialising in industrial, logistics, distribution and manufacturing, to deliver a 340,000 sq ft logistics warehousing scheme in South Yorkshire. The 24-acre site, called Barnsley340, will include a Grade-A warehouse unit spanning 320,000 sq ft, along with 20,000 sq ft of highly specified office space. Work will start imminently, with completion expected in Q3 2023. In line with Firethorn’s enhanced specification, the scheme will be delivered to net-zero carbon in construction and target an ‘Excellent’ BREEAM rating. A sustainable design is featured throughout to reduce operating costs and increase energy efficiencies, with initiatives including rainwater harvesting, provisions for HGV EV charging and capabilities for 100% Photovoltaic arrays. Paul Martin, Development Director at Firethorn Trust, said: “We’re delighted to be working with Glencar again, on what will be its third appointment on a Firethorn logistics development. We are continually impressed by the team’s expertise and ability to deliver schemes that are in keeping with the values of Firethorn, ensuring that future occupiers will benefit from a high-quality, flexible and market-leading design. “Widely regarded as a prime logistics site in an area benefitting from ongoing inward investment and regeneration, Barnsley has become a highly sought-after location for ambitious businesses looking to expand their operations. As market demand for modern logistics space continues to grow, we are confident that the Firethorn specification will unlock the full potential of this site, whilst bringing economic and societal benefits into the area.” Also commenting on the project appointment, Pete Goodman, Glencar Managing Director Midlands and North, added: “Glencar prides itself on solid partnerships and has built its business based on long-term, mutually successful relationships with our customers. We are therefore delighted to receive our third project instruction to date from Firethorn following other recent appointments in Erith and Peterborough. “As Firethorn continue to expand their portfolio of sites and presence in the logistics real estate sector around the UK, we are ready, willing and able to support that growth and fully committed to a long-standing partnership. “We look forward to getting started on this project and delivering a first-class outcome to the net zero in construction benchmark specification which is rapidly becoming the new norm in the sector.” Fronting the Dearne Valley Parkway, less than one mile from J36 of the M1, Barnsley340 offers ideal connectivity to the UK logistics network, with direct motorway access to Leeds, Doncaster and Sheffield. Enquiries should be directed to the scheme’s agents Gent Visick and Knight Frank. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Commercial real estate investor and developer, Firethorn Trust, has been given planning consent to deliver 660,000 sq ft of logistics warehousing in North Yorkshire. Sitting adjacent to the Sherburn Enterprise Park in Leeds, Firethorn’s 37-acre scheme will comprise four highly specified Grade-A units, delivered to net-zero carbon in construction. With approval from Selby District Council, work on site will begin in November, with completion expected in Q3 2023. The ‘Excellent’ BREEAM-Rated scheme includes 15% roof lighting and future provisions for power generation, with particular attention paid to the landscaped environment, which looks to enhance local biodiversity whilst creating an attractive working space. Paul Martin, Development Director at Firethorn, commented: “With units ranging from 57,750 to 280,000 sq ft, Sherburn42 is set to be a significant development for the region. “Providing a flexible, modern and sustainable space, and with excellent transport connections linking road, rail and sea, we believe the scheme offers a smart solution for businesses looking to expand their operations. “Now that we have received the green light from the council, we look forward to beginning work on site and bringing this project forward at pace.” Benefiting from up to 4MvA power, the approved plans include eaves heights of 15m to haunch, 11 ground-level access doors and 633 parking spaces. Close proximity to junction 42 A1 (M) provides direct connections to Leeds, the M1, M62 and coastal ports of Hull and Grimsby, as well as a number of regional rail stations and airports. Enquiries should be directed to the scheme’s letting agents: Colliers, Lambert Smith Hampton, and Carter Towler.
FIRETHORN TRUST LAYS THE GROUND FOR SUSTAINABLE INNOVATION WITH CARBON-SAVING AT PETERBOROUGH DEVELOPMENT In line with Firethorn’s commitment to be a market leader in sustainable development, the three-unit scheme will feature innovative products and an advanced specification for occupiers, setting the standard for future logistics. As part of its ongoing investment in research and development, Firethorn identified the short- and long-term advantages of PrimX as an alternative to traditional concrete flooring, becoming the first developer to bring the product to the UK logistics space. Delivering environmental benefits – including a 30% reduction in construction time and a 70% decrease in CO2 emissions – the jointless system is designed to save money, enhance safety and increase high-load resistance over time. Paul Martin, Development Director at Firethorn Trust, said: “We are always striving to innovate and do things differently, working with best-in-class teams to deliver pioneering solutions that will set the standard for occupiers and sustainability. We’re proud to be the very first UK logistics developer to use PrimX flooring, knowing that it will provide substantial environmental benefits, both now and in the future. “The time and investment that we spend exploring these products is what we believe sets Firethorn schemes apart, and is central to our unwavering commitment to innovation, sustainability and improving tenant experiences. Bringing industry-leading products and build methods to the market means that we stay ahead of the curve and can create future-proofed logistics solutions that meet our own ambitious ESG targets, as well as the evolving needs of our occupiers.” An ultra-high performance concrete, PrimX features a shrinkage control system that makes it possible to cast indoor slabs of unlimited size and geometry. Featuring steel fibre reinforcement, the slab’s design is up to 60% thinner than traditional alternatives, whilst providing a higher load-bearing capability. Paul Martin continued: “This is the first of many innovations that will take the industry forward, and we’re proud to be at the forefront of sustainable development. We are implementing actions to reduce our environmental impact at every level of the business, and at every stage of our projects, and our Peterborough South scheme is a prime example of the Firethorn standard.” The first PrimX pour has now taken place at Peterborough South, which is being delivered by Glencar Construction, with completion due in Q4 2022. The development will be net-zero carbon in construction, with a BREEAM ‘Excellent’ specification. Its infrastructure will feature more than 40,000 sq. ft. of photovoltaic arrays and 48 electric vehicle charging points. Future occupiers can also benefit from a clear internal height of 15m, up to 52.5m yard depth and an impressive 3MVA of power. The scheme is located just six minutes from Junction 17 of the A1(M) and adjacent to Fletton Parkway, allowing quick and easy access to the motorway network and local labour force. All enquiries for Peterborough South should be directed to the scheme’s letting agents, Savills and Lambert Smith Hampton.
