Henry Boot Developments has secured planning consent for units at Spark industrial park in Walsall, solidifying its role in regional development.
- The Spark site, formerly the James Bridge Copper Works, is undergoing remediation, marking a transformation of a significant brownfield area.
- Plans include three new units totalling 464,000 sq ft, enhancing regional industrial and logistics capabilities.
- Specialised remediation involves repurposing millions of tonnes of soil and concrete, aligning with sustainability goals.
- Henry Boot aims to commence construction in late 2024, with occupancy targeted for summer 2025, amidst growing occupier interest.
The announcement that Henry Boot Developments (HBD) has received reserved matters planning consent for three significant units at Spark industrial park underscores the company’s strategic commitment to transforming the region’s industrial landscape. The industrial park, with a gross development value of £110 million, is set to bolster the area’s economic footprint.
Once known as Phoenix 10, the site of the former James Bridge Copper Works, which lay as the largest undeveloped brownfield site in the Black Country, is undergoing a substantial remediation process. HBD, in collaboration with Walsall Council and other key partners, aims to complete these specialised works by the third quarter of 2024, with plans to initiate construction on the newly approved units shortly thereafter.
The strategic significance of this site is highlighted by its proximity to key transport links, such as junctions 9 and 10 of the M6, making it an ideal location for logistics operations. The 620,000 sq ft of industrial and logistics space being developed on such a prime site is crucial for addressing the regional demand for quality industrial space.
The intensive remediation activities have included the excavation and treatment of 1.3 million tonnes of soil. Additionally, 150,000 tonnes of concrete have been processed to produce recycled aggregate, showcasing HBD’s commitment to sustainable practices. Such efforts reflect the increasing importance of sustainability within industrial development.
Tim Roberts, Henry Boot’s chief executive, articulated the company’s strategic confidence in the logistics sector, emphasising the increasing complexity of the planning environment. He noted that the project is attracting significant interest from potential occupiers, which is indicative of the high demand for well-located, sustainable industrial space.
With plans to commence construction on the first unit by late 2024 and potential occupancy by mid-2025, the Spark project is poised to significantly contribute to the revitalisation of the region’s industrial capacity, enhancing Henry Boot’s growing portfolio.
The Spark industrial park project exemplifies Henry Boot’s prowess in executing complex developments with a sustainability focus.
