A new 51,000 sq ft speculative unit is being constructed at IM Properties’ Mercia Park scheme, junction 11, M42, completing Q3, 2023.
Targeting a rich seam of logistics providers and manufacturers in NW Leicestershire, Mercia 51 sits alongside some of the Midlands leading businesses including Jaguar Land Rover and DSV.
The state-of-the-art logistics destination has sustainability at its core. IM Properties has worked in partnership with the main contractor, Winvic Construction Ltd, to achieve Net Zero in Construction on the site overall, including the buildings recently constructed for Jaguar Land Rover.
Mercia 51 will also be Net Zero Ready and target BREEAM Excellent, an EPC A rating and as part of its sustainable transport strategy have 10 active EV charging spaces, with passive infrastructure for another 40 and storage for up to 12 cycles.
Harry Goodman, development director for IM Properties, said creating future-proofed, high specification warehousing was no longer just about the construction but the environment in which it sits.
“Business is becoming more accountable for its commitment towards a sustainable future and the logistics sector is more focussed than ever on transparency around its operations.
“This is driven not only by societal shifts but by businesses, their customers and supply chain who have their own targets and ambitions.
“Mercia Park represents our line in the sand, as the first of our large-scale development schemes to achieve Net Zero in Construction. Mercia 51 raises the bar further to also be Net Zero Ready. This means the building is optimised so the occupier can achieve Net Zero in Operation.”
Goodman added: “Mercia 51 is being created to a level of specification which sits within our Sustainable Future’s framework and aligns with the Green Building Councils (UKGBC)’s recommendations.
“Mercia Park has already contributed to many local grassroots projects through a £350,000 community fund and our contractor, Winvic Construction Ltd, has partnered with us to promote employment and skills, creating an onsite training centre and a Sustainability and Innovation Hub.”
People and employee wellbeing are also part of IM Properties commitment on the scheme. Mercia 51 will sit amidst 12 hectares of woodland and 4k of amenity paths within Mercia Park, giving future occupiers access to green outdoor areas, cycle paths and footways.
Goodman continues: “Mercia 51 offers the full package to modern occupiers. The strength of the location and its connectivity is reflected by the businesses already in operation on the scheme.
“The added layer of sustainability and social responsibility creates a narrative around Mercia Park which is equally attractive for occupiers to buy into.
“We’ve come to see that this no longer as an aspiration but a priority for future viability if we are all to remain relevant in today’s world.”
