A vacant former housing depot in Leicester has been transformed with the development of a new £6.25 million light industrial scheme.
Commercial property developer, Brackley Property Developments, has completed the construction of Blackbird Industrial Park, which comprises more than 30,000 sq ft of new light industrial units at the site on Blackbird Road, on behalf of Leicester City Council.
The scheme comprises four new and environmentally sustainable buildings which are subdivided to provide 21 high quality small units for start-ups and growing businesses, meeting a regional demand for commercial and industrial workspace.
Units are EPC A-rated and range in size from 750 sq ft – 2,500 sq ft. Features include roof-mounted solar panels, super insulation and low-energy smart lighting, and the site provides on-site parking, EV charging and bicycle storage facilities.
The brownfield site was previously home to the Ian Marlow Centre, a former housing depot used by Leicester City Council, which included vacant office, workshop and storage buildings.
The scheme was financed by the government’s Levelling Up Fund following the city council’s successful bid for £19.4million of new investment in 2021 to support the growth of workspaces in Leicester.
BPD won the remit from the council to redevelop the site, following a competitive tender. Wilten Construction was the main contractor and the professional team included Summers Inman LLP, Stephen George + Partners, BSP and BWB Consulting.