Rail electrification on track with lease of ‘prime premises’

The lease of a prime Thurmaston business site is keeping the region on track for rail electrification.

Leicestershire commercial property specialist Andrew + Ashwell has negotiated the lease of the former Jewsons builders’ merchant, on Troon Commercial Area, to SPL Powerlines, in a move that will help speed work on the electrification of local train lines.

Located approximately three miles north of Leicester, Troon Commercial Area is one of Leicester’s largest and well-established commercial business locations.

Located on the corner of Wenlock Way and Cannock Street, with vehicle access off both roads, the site had a long history of use for a builders centre but is adaptable to a variety of uses. Interlinked buildings include single storey stores and workshop areas, plus two storey offices, a trade area totalling 21,890 sq ft, plus extensive hard standing.

The electrification of public transport systems is the basis of the reduction of CO2 emissions in transport. SPL Powerlines UK is among the leading rail electrification businesses in the UK, providing overhead line equipment. The service portfolio spans complete implementation of complex projects, including design, project management, isolations, installation and maintenance, as well as commissioning and resourcing rail personnel.

Chris Morton, for the tenant’s agent, Elliam CPS, said the new premises meets the needs of SPL Powerlines and will facilitate successful implementation of the next phase of the electrification of the Midland Mainline through to Leicester from Market Harborough.

“The location, with low site cover but also a mix of offices and warehousing, suits the operation ideally and will enable the company to bid for further phases of the project as it heads north towards Nottingham and Derby. The ability to work here 24/7 is of particular importance.”

A+A’s Kelvin Wilson added: “We had terms agreed with an alternative party in early 2020, prior to COVID, but they unfortunately felt that they could not continue given the uncertainty of the economy at the time of lockdown restrictions. After the first lockdown, a temporary arrangement was put in place and following the relaxation of restrictions, interest in the site bounced back strongly. Overall interest from a variety of occupiers has been very positive.”