HBD, Barnfield get permission for 108,000 sq ft APTUS expansion
The addition to the £100m development would see two 26,500 sq ft units and a detached 53,800 sq ft unit built at the site after permission was granted by Preston City Council.
Three industrial and logistics hubs will be developed by the joint venture between HBD and Barnfield, contributing to the wider 800,000 sq ft APTUS scheme comprising 62 acres of land off Junction 31A of the M6.
Designed with an emphasis on sustainability, the industrial site features solar panels, EV charging points, and a 15-acre landscaped area for the estimated 1,500 employees it could host, according to the developers.
Ed Hutchinson, managing director, HBD, said: “We’re pleased to have secured planning for a further 108,000 sq ft at APTUS.
“It is very well located, which, alongside its sustainability credentials and power capabilities, continues to drive strong interest from potential occupiers.”
Tracy Clavell-Bate, head of development at Barnfield Group, added: “Having planning permission allows us to go to the market with an oven-ready scheme which is attractive to occupiers.
“There is limited supply in the market, allowing us to move ahead of the curve.”
The agents for the sheds are Gerald Eve, Young & Co, and Eckersley Property.
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Planning consultant Iceni Projects submitted the application to Preston City Council on behalf of the joint venture. The sheds have been designed by C4 Projects.
The project team includes Mode Transport Planning, Kingfisher Lighting, and E3P.
To view the application, use the planning reference number 06/2024/1260 on Preston City Council’s planning portal.
Flooring solutions manufacturer Kerakoll will be the scheme’s first occupier at Aptus, with construction set to start on its 145,000sq ft unit in summer.
The 108,000 sq ft shed will widen the workspace offer at APTUS. Credit: via planning documents
