Plans lodged for Skelmersdale logistics scheme 

By Liza Helps Property Editor Logistics Matters

THE DEVELOPER is seeking full planning permission for the demolition of existing buildings and erection of a new 245,040 ft2 industrial/warehouse building on the site which is within West Pimbo Industrial Estate and is located close to Junctions 4 and 5 of the M58 Motorway. 

The facility, to be known as Skelmersdale 245, will have 230,423 ft2 of warehousing space as well as 13,487 ft2 of fist floor offices and a separate transport office totalling 1,130 ft2.

It will have 15m eaves, a 50m service yard as well as 18 dock (five Euro dock doors) and three level access doors. There will be 189 car and 27 HGV parking bays as well as 20 EV charging bays with a further 20 future EV charging bays.

The facility will be built to target BREEAM Excellent and an EPC A rating as well as a BNG of more than 10% from existing.

The developer purchased Allied Business Centre for £4.75 million in 2021.

HBD Executive Director Vivienne Clements, said: “Along with the growth of HBD’s development pipeline, we also remain focused on expanding our investment portfolio – the acquisition of Allied Business Centre formed part of that strategy. It’s positive to be able to submit planning for the site and begin to think about its redevelopment prospects.

“There remains a significant shortage of Grade A industrial stock across the North West – the huge demand for well-located space was demonstrated at Preston EAST, a scheme we developed speculatively, where phase one was fully let well in advance of PC. This is an excellent location and would inject much-needed stock into the market to meet future need.”

Part of the Henry Boot Group, HBD is currently working with a £1.25bn development pipeline across industrial and logistics, urban regeneration and residential..

HBD has also submitted reserved matters planning for the first phase of its £188m GVA SPARK scheme on the 44-acre former James Bridge Copper Works in the Black Country; 

Once complete, SPARK will provide 620,000 sq. ft. of high-spec space, with units ranging from 20,000 sq. ft. to 254,000 sq. ft. Located on the M6, close to Junctions 9 and 10, its enviable position has already drawn strong interest. 

SPARK is one of the largest regeneration projects in Europe, transforming– into a highly sustainable new scheme. The development will play a major role in attracting inward investment and could see as many as 1,100 new jobs return to the once-thriving site.

SPARK is being delivered by HBD in partnership with Walsall Council, Homes England, West Midlands Combined Authority and Black Country LEP. The first units will be ready for occupation in Q1 2025.