Early interest in strategic M6 corridor site plan

Henry Boot Developments (HBD) and Barnfield Construction have acquired an 18-acre strategic site in Preston and are moving forward with development plans.

The acquisition from Greater Manchester Property Venture Fund will see HBD and Barnfield bring forward a scheme for the site as part of a joint venture.

Named ‘East’, the proposed development is located at Junction 31A of the M6 in Preston and will deliver industrial and warehouse space, with units ranging from 6,700 sq ft through to 187,000 sq ft.

The site already benefits from outline planning permission these uses. HBD and Barnfield say they have received “notable early interest” in opportunities at East, with discussions ongoing with several potential occupiers.

HBD, part of the 130-year old Henry Boot group, has six regional offices and is currently working with a commercial development pipeline exceeding £1bn.

Barnfield Construction has worked with public and private sector partners and clients for more than 40 years. 

The contractor, developer and investor is managing more than 30 live sites nationally from its Brierfield headquarters.

The acquisition is the second collaboration between the two companies, with HB Barnfield currently delivering Beacon 62, an 11.5-acre strategic gateway site in Huyton, Merseyside.

Dean Thompson, regional manager of HBD Manchester, said: “We are bringing East forward at an opportune time given the continued shortage of Grade A industrial and large-scale employment space in the North West, particularly along the M6 corridor.”

Tim Webber, managing director of Barnfield Construction, added: “The site benefits from an excellent location along the M6 corridor, with almost immediate access to the UK motorway network. It’s an excellent opportunity for occupiers, whether for industrial or warehousing use, and the early interest we have seen is very encouraging. We look forward to securing the first occupier and getting started on site.”