Boohoo launches controversial plan to build second warehouse

PLANS by rapidly expanding online fast fashion retailer Boohoo.com to build a second big warehouse in Burnley have been submitted.

The Manchester-based company, which already has a massive warehouse and distribution centre on Heasandford Industrial Estate, built in 2012, now wants to build another measuring 163,000sq ft  on a site which backs on to the Sir John Thursby Community College grounds.

The scheme to build a second huge warehouse which would be open 24 hours a day seven days has sparked controversy locally.

An application to Burnley Borough Council on behalf of Boohoo said: “The scheme proposals are designed to sit comfortably with the existing facility and the wider context of Heasandford Industrial Estate.

“The design solution provides a contemporary yet functional architectural aesthetic scheme that responds to the future requirements of the applicant, while the choice of colour and materials have been carefully considered to reduce the visual impact of the overall massing.

“The creation of this modern distribution facility and amenity facilities, bespoke to the end users specific requirements, will help ensure that Boohoo can remain at Heasandford Industrial Estate for many years to come.”

Boohoo said the new centre would create potential for significant employment opportunities for Burnley residents. The decision on the application has been delegated to a council officer, but will go to a committee for decision if appropriate complaints are made.

Meanwhile, Boohoo is believed to have placed a bid for Nasty Gal following the US company’s collapse into bankruptcy.

Los Angeles-headquartered Nasty Gal filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy earlier this month, saying it was unable to pay back its creditors while its founder Sophie Amoruso left the business.