Construction underway on DHL’s new Exeter service centre

Stoford is making progress on a new DHL parcel distribution service centre as part of the next phase of a job-creating logistics park in East Devon.

Construction is underway on two new buildings that will deliver a combined 83,500 sq ft of industrial/logistics accommodation at Exeter Logistics Park, on the former Hayes Farm, Clyst Honiton.

They include a modern, bespoke facility of 55,000 sq ft on behalf of DHL that has been designed to reduce the logistics firm’s environmental footprint by minimising the number of vehicles required on site.

Stoford is targeting BREEAM ‘very good’ and an EPC A rating for the new service centre, which will benefit from sustainability features including PV solar panels, EV charging points, a sustainable urban drainage system and a green roof atop integral office areas.

The new development will also promote employee health and wellbeing through the creation of trim trail and outdoor gym areas, including bodyweight exercise equipment.

A second unit of c. 28,500 sq ft is being developed speculatively by Stoford, in partnership with Urban Logistics REIT, and is expected to operate as a conventional facility with flexible warehouse space. The new developments could create more than 150 new jobs when they are functional in Q1 2022.

Dan Gallagher, Joint Managing Director, Stoford said: “This is an ambitious build programme that recognises the need for Exeter Logistics Park to be developed responsibly, delivering environmental and economic benefits. There is huge pent up demand for logistics and distribution accommodation of this size and quality in the region, which is why we’ve taken the decision to develop speculatively. We’re excited by the potential to establish the site as the South West’s leading distribution hub, south of Bristol.”