The £800m Airport City development in Manchester has signed its first prelet, agreeing terms with DHL.
The logistics giant has agreed a deal with Manchester Airports Group to develop a 37,308 sq ft building at Airport City South, adjacent to the airport’s existing cargo centre and junction 6 of the M56 motorway.
Airport City is a 10- to 15-year development in Manchester’s enterprise zone, designed to transform the regional airport into a major international transport hub.
Phil Couchman, chief executive of DHL Express, UK and Ireland, said: “Our investment in this state-of-the- art facility is reflective of the demand for British-made goods overseas.
“As the region’s economy goes from strength to strength, this new facility also marks a milestone in the growth of DHL. This operation will serve to enhance DHL’s competitive logistical performance due to its strategic location, state-of-the-art features and best-in-class handling processes.
“What’s more, the location of the hub within the enterprise zone will support future export opportunities for small businesses in the region, allowing British businesses to get their product to international markets with even greater speed and reliability.”
John Atkins, MAG’s property director, said: “This is fantastic news for the local area and the regional economy, as well as a high-calibre kick-off point for Airport City. DHL is a global leader in its field and a well-established, highly recognised global brand, which we are delighted to welcome as the first occupier at the UK’s first Airport City.
“The logistics sector is a key growth area and we aim to build on Manchester’s status as a major airport for cargo, with the logistics hub at Airport City becoming a catalyst for economic growth in the region.”
jack.sidders@estatesgazette.com
