Surging demand triggers expansion at Daventry rail hub

Prologis UK is eyeing up plans to add 1m sq ft to it’s rail-connected logistics park at DIRFT in Northamptonshire, with proposals for three new units set to be lodged.

An application for DC762, a new 762,000 sq ft rail-served distribution centre, has already been lodged with West Northamptonshire Council, with proposals for two further units, measuring 158,000 sq ft and 265,000 sq ft respectively, slated for submission in the coming weeks.

The firm says the move comes in the wake of a “sustained increase in customer enquiries” at DIRFT with retailers, third-party logistics providers and e-commerce businesses hoping to centralise their operations.

Last year, retailer Marks & Spencer announced plans to build a 1.3m sq ft distribution hub, while Arla Foods followed suit – starting work on  a 285,000 sq ft purpose-built distribution centre in January.

“Enquiries for plots at DIRFT have increased as customers prioritise scale, connectivity and long-term certainty,” said James Hemstock, capital deployment director at Prologis UK.

“Progressing these developments now ensures that capacity is available to meet sustained demand in the Midlands. DIRFT continues to demonstrate the strength of rail-connected logistics infrastructure as a long-term platform for UK supply chains.”

Designed to meet the demands of modern logistics, DC762 will deliver an 18m clear internal height. The cross-docked building will include 114 dock doors and 11 level access doors on east and west elevations.

Infrastructure proposals include a new access road, 233 trailer spaces, 590 space car park and 144 cycle spaces.

DC762 follows full consent being granted for DC613, a 613,000 sq ft unit at DIRFT ready for fast-track occupation, with groundworks and power connection in place.

Construction of DC107, a speculative 107,000 sq ft development, commenced in January and is scheduled for completion in Q3 2026.