Planning Bid for 142,000 sq ft Wakefield Hub

Construction of a 142,000 sq ft – B2, B8 distribution unit at Wakefield Europort in West Yorkshire is one step closer after plans were submitted to Wakefield Council.

Development at the 6-acre site in Normanton is part of a joint venture, entitled Tri-Link140 LLP, between Preston-based Maple Grove Developments, part of the Eric Wright Group, in conjunction with Leeds-based property company Yorvale and developer Kier Property, part of the Kier Group.

The proposed 142,000 sq ft unit comprises 135,000 sq ft of warehouse space and 7,000 sq ft of office accommodation across two levels. The designs also accommodate 160 parking spaces for cars and HGVs, along with 13 dock-level loading doors and two level access doors.

Maple Grove Developments has owned the land since May 2012, which is prominently located off junction 31 of the M62, with adjacent units occupied by DHL, TK Maxx, Argos and HI Group.

The location also benefits from European rail freight access through the Europort freight terminal, ready access to the Ports of Goole and Hull and five international airports within a 60 minute drive.

Chris Evenson, managing director of Maple Grove Developments, said: “Wakefield Europort has forged an excellent reputation and is regarded as a flagship industrial and warehouse location in West Yorkshire. We hope the development helps to attract another household name to the region.

“Kier has an excellent reputation and we’re pleased to be partnering with them on this sought after opportunity.”

Tom Gilman, director at Kier Property added: “We are delighted to announce we have submitted planning for this exciting new scheme. This joint venture strengthens our presence in the North of England and our reputation to deliver joint venture projects with other leading developers in the area.”

Work is expected to start on site in spring 2015 and is due for completion later in 2015.