ASDA Wal-Mart is building a 418,802 sq ft (38,908 sq m) distribution and recycling centre in Skelmersdale.
The £30m facility, being built by the group’s property subsidiary Gazeley Properties, comprises a 346,571 sq ft (32,197 sq m) chilled and frozen goods distribution centre and a separate 72,231 sq ft (6,713 sq m) recycling service centre.
ASDA completed the purchase of the 33-acre (13.35ha) site at the XL North West park from a consortium including Lancashire council earlier this month.
The landowner still has around 50 acres (20.23ha) left to develop or sell.
XL North West is located on the M58 motorway north east of Liverpool and is adjacent to the distribution base for discount retailer Matalan.
The M58 joins the M6 motorway at junction 26.
ASDA wanted the centre to be as close as possible to its existing distribution facility in Wheatlea, Wigan.
Completion of the centre is due in the summer.
Rob Trevor of Jones Lang LaSalle, who advised ASDA and Gazeley, said: “This was an urgent requirement as ASDA needs to expand its distribution network immediately.
“We looked at other sites in Wigan, St Helens and Skelmersdale before settling on XL.
“This will probably be one of the largest distribution deals in the region this year.”
Edwin Hill and Colliers CRE acted on behalf of the landowner.
References: EGi News 25/02/03
