A Cheshire-based developer is about to submit plans for what will be Scotland’s largest speculative industrial scheme.
Gladman Developments is applying for permission to build a 600,000 sq ft warehouse on 33.5 acres at the J4 M8 distribution park in West Lothian.
Scotland’s largest speculative stand-alone warehousing unit is currently a 100,000 sq ft shed at Eurocentral in Lanarkshire, also on the M8 corridor.
James Barr’s Yan Stewart, who advised Gladman on the acquisition, said that the size and pace of development depends on occupier demand.
He said: “It could be one 600,000 sq ft unit, it could be two 300,000 sq ft units, or it could be 250,000 sq ft and 350,000 sq ft.”
Gladman director, Kevin Edwards, said: “We are aware of at least four major requirements for large distribution warehouses in the Central Belt.”
Although Edwards would not name potential occupiers, it is known that supermarket chain Morrisons is looking for a permanent home for its distribution operation in Scotland.
Morrisons currently holds two short leases at Eurocentral and The Pyramids in Bathgate.
In addition, third-party distributors Wincanton and TDG are looking for space.
Gladman’s £35m scheme will be located in a distribution park next to a 500,000 sq ft centre for supermarket chain Aldi and a 130,000 sq ft Scottish Courage warehouse.
Developer Strawson, advised by Jones Lang LaSalle, sold the J4 M8 site to Gladman.
References: EGi News 18/01/06
