Massive distribution centre takes shape

A massive distribution centre just off the M4 at Chippenham is taking shape – although construction work has now been paused due to the coronavirus outbreak.

Steelworks for the first speculative unit on the St Modwen Park at Junction 17 have now been erected.

The 106,000 sq ft unit forms part of the first phase of development at the 73-acre site, which construction firm St Modwen had hoped would be ready for occupation by September.

Other preparatory work at the site includes the construction of a major roundabout.

The site is strategically located off junction 17 of the M4 in the heart of the south-west logistics triangle, serving the M4 corridor and between Bristol and Swindon. Logistics companies are being offered ‘build to suit’ units ranging in size from 100,000 sq ft to one million sq ft.

Peter Davies, development director at St Modwen Industrial & Logistics, said: “The first phase of development at St. Modwen Park Chippenham is an exciting start to this key strategically located logistics employment site, which already has a significant amount of interest due to its excellent location and high-quality speculative build programme.”

Neil Bannerman, project manager at Winvic Construction Ltd, commented: “We are proud to be delivering this high-quality unit as part of phase one in Chippenham, one of a number of schemes Winvic is currently constructing as St Modwen’s partner. We hope to continue working with St Modwen across their UK portfolio and exceeding expectations along the way.”

Once complete, the whole scheme is expected to create around 1,300 jobs as well as skills, training and apprenticeship opportunities through a planned partnership with Wiltshire College during construction.

Longer term, St Modwen Park Chippenham will generate significant inward investment for the local area.

The joint agents for the site are Alder King, DTRE and JLL.