Logistics parks get green light

Two major logistics parks, which together could add more than 5 million ft² to the UK’s warehousing stock, can now go ahead after receiving the green light from the planning authorities.

Highgrove Group has received full planning approval for up to 2.5 million ft² of high-bay distribution/industrial accommodation in Gateshead, while DB Symmetry has been granted final permission for a 3 million ft² scheme in Lutterworth.

The Gateshead site will be known as Follingsby Max (pictured) and is adjacent to the well-established Follingsby Park development. It is located off the A194(M), giving it access to the A1(M) and A19 roads.

Highgrove has begun enabling works at the site with full-serviced plots expected to be ready for development by the end of the year. The park could accommodate a range of units from 200,000 ft² up to a single unit of 2.5 million ft².

The specification includes warehouse eaves heights of up to 28 metres and there is 24/7 access. The scheme, which was supported by Gateshead Council and the North East Local Enterprise Partnership, is within the North East Enterprise Zone. This was created in 2012 and provides tax breaks and other support to encourage job creation.

David Price, Highgrove’s operations director, said: “We are already seeing significant interest in the development from a variety of potential end-users, including online retailers, manufacturers, distribution/logistics and automotive companies and look forward to making further positive announcements soon.”

The DB Symmetry scheme, adjacent to the giant Magna Park development near Lutterworth, can also now start. The secretary of state for Housing, Communities and Local Government has decided not to call in the project for further consideration. This means that a decision by Harborough District Council last November to approve the scheme will stand.

Warehouses of up to 18 metres in height can be developed at the site, which could create 3,500 jobs. The development will include a new roundabout onto the A4303, giving access to both the A5 and M1.