Massive industrial estate on the market for first time in over 50 years
One of the region’s largest industrial and distribution estates, which spans more than 60 acres and helped reinforcing Britain’s military airpower during the Second World War, is for sale for the first time since 1969.
Leeds Bradford Airport Depot comprises a single building structure extending to approximately 1.25 million sq ft.
It is being marketed by Leeds property consultancy, GV&Co’s investment division, which is seeking offers of more than £30m.
The estate provides accommodation in 15 units ranging in size from about 25,000 sq ft to 150,000 sq ft and currently hosts seven tenants.
Leeds Bradford Airport Depot was originally built by the Avro Aircraft Company and between 1939 and 1946 it became a ‘shadow factory’ with its roof camouflaged in grass, complete with imitation farm buildings and dummy animals.
This meant from the sky is looked like agricultural land rather than the largest industrial production centre in Europe.
The estate contributed to the war effort on a colossal scale with around 700 Lancaster Bombers and 4,500 Anson aircraft built at the site by a 17,500 strong workforce.
The property has been substantially adapted and modernised during its ownership by Broadland Properties Group, in order to meet tenant and occupational requirements.
James Hill, director at Broadland Properties, said: “Leeds Bradford Airport Depot has been a long-term hold for us, and continues to be a reliable and substantial cash generator for the group, as it has over the period of our ownership.
“As our group investment criteria and requirements change, we are pleased to offer Leeds Bradford Airport Depot to the market, to begin the next phase of its exciting history.”
Garry Howes, director of investment at GV&Co, said: “Leeds Bradford Airport Depot is a landmark building in West Yorkshire and very well-known due to its vast scale, prominent location and rich history.
“This sale therefore represents a completely unique, high yield, multi-let investment opportunity.
“The development has more than stood the test of time, and continually attracts and retains strong national tenants including the likes of APCOA, VPK Packaging, Jet2, VLT Logistics and Toyota Tsusho.”
Interested parties should contact Garry Howes or Dan Walker at the sole selling agents GV&Co.
