Former GKN site to be transformed into £77m logistics scheme
Plans have been approved for a 270,000 sq ft logistics development on the former GKN Driveline factory site in Erdington.
Spearheaded by a joint venture between developer Chancerygate and investor Bridges Fund Management, the £77m Torque scheme will comprise 22 Grade A units ranging from 4,500 sq ft to 66,000 sq ft.
The West Midlands Combined Authority has already acquired 0.8 acres of land at the front of the estate. There are also ongoing discussions with a number of interested parties regarding the sale of a further one-acre plot of land at the site.
All units at Torque will be fitted with electric vehicle charging points and have solar panels on their roofs, which will provide occupiers with green energy on an affordable basis. Torque is targeting EPC A+ and a BREEAM Excellent rating as a minimum.
Rob Watts, Chancerygate development manager said: “Torque will help satisfy the high demand from SME occupiers in Birmingham and across the West Midlands for high quality, high specification sustainable urban logistics units.
“We are also incredibly proud to be extending the site’s history, by regenerating it into Grade A urban logistics units focused for SME’s that will be fit for future generations.
“The scheme’s location on what is one of the city’s most prominent sites will be hugely appealing a range for prospective occupiers. This is evidenced by the land deal which have already been agreed with the WMCA and continue to generate such strong interest for the remaining plot.
“Now that planning has been granted, we’re excited about starting work on site and developing what will be much needed space for Birmingham and the wider West Midlands.”
Adam Amijee, investment manager at Bridges Fund Management said: “We are delighted to have the opportunity to transform this redundant site in Erdington into a best-in-class urban logistics facility that will support hundreds of jobs.
“We will be targeting market-leading sustainability credentials, using smart design and on-site renewables to ensure that the facility is zero carbon emissions in operation.
“This will appeal to a range of occupiers who want to reduce their running costs, accelerate their Net Zero Journey, and future-proof themselves against possible regulation.”
Agents for Torque are Knight Frank and Newmark.
