Leeds-based developer, Eshton, is to develop a major industrial scheme in Yorkshire following the acquisition of a 10-acre site close to junction 40 of the M1 in Wakefield.
The ‘Centric 40’ scheme will see Eshton develop approximately 165,000 sq ft of commercial (B2) and industrial (B8) space, in units ranging from 25,000 sq ft upwards.
The project follows the developer’s successful Burnley Bridge Business Park scheme at Junction 9 of the M65, which has seen Eshton develop 650,000 sq ft of commercial and industrial accommodation, with a further 100,000 sq ft due to start on site by September.
Located half a mile from the M1 junction 40, the development site at Flanshaw Way in Wakefield was formerly owned by food products supplier, Kepak UK, and has been derelict since March 2014.
Eshton’s plan to bring this site back into use will begin with the demolition of the existing buildings on site by the end of 2016, with the first units available for occupation during 2017.
Director, Richard Tovey comments: “The shortage of quality modern industrial accommodation and available development sites has been an obstacle to the growth of industrial businesses and inward investment in West Yorkshire for some time.
“This scheme will help to support economic growth in the region and create commercial opportunities. We will ensure that the mix of accommodation is flexible, high quality and designed to meet occupiers’ requirements, basing the design on our existing successful model.”
Eshton will carry out ground remediation to the site prior to the start of works and has already appointed the Leeds offices of GVA and Carter Towler to the scheme as joint marketing agents.
Leeds-based Gordons LLP advised Eshton on the site acquisition.