Planning secured for 1.2m sq ft logistics scheme

St. Modwen Logistics is set to move forward with plans for a 1.2m sq ft multi-phase development its Meaford scheme, close to Stoke-on-Trent.The developer has secured a resolution to grant outline planning consent from Stafford Borough Council, to add 1.2m sq ft of additional space across the 85-acre site.Its first phase will comprise two units totalling 120,000 sq ft and the remaining space to be delivered speculatively or on a build-to-suit basis, with up to 450,000 sq ft available for bespoke buildings.St. Modwen expects the units will achieve minimum EPC ‘A’ and BREEAM ‘Excellent’ certifications and say it will be designed for low occupational costs, with EV charging points, smart metering, intelligent LED lighting and low energy lifts.Detailed planning consent has also been granted for the redevelopment of Trident Business Park in Warrington, where it will replace existing outdated units with two modern sustainable warehouse units totalling 130,000 sq ft.Richard Hickman, director of planning at St. Modwen Logistics said: “We are excited to move forward with our plans at Meaford and Trident Business Park, where our development programme will help address a critical undersupply of modern, sustainable logistics space that is currently holding back economic growth.“The schemes will support hundreds of new jobs across a range of employment types and help attract businesses and talent.”Sara Williams, CEO of the Stafford Chambers of Commerce said: “This is great news for Staffordshire. Freight is the source of huge numbers of jobs in Staffordshire already, with people working in sectors such as logistics, the automotive industries, food production and serving the businesses importing and exporting goods by air and sea.“We hope the development will be a further shot in the arm for the local economy, with jobs and prosperity across our region”.