Work starts at major industrial development in Coventry
Work is now under way on the first phase of a planned major employment site in Coventry.
Developers Graftongate say contractors have moved in at Pickford Interchange, a 645,000 sq ft logistics and manufacturing scheme on a 52-acre site in Coventry, backed by a £48 million investment from Royal London Asset Management Property.
Once complete, the first phase of the development will create nine high-quality units totalling 350,000 sq ft, designed for industrial, logistics, manufacturing, and R&D occupiers.
The development is due to be completed by mid-2026, and is expected to deliver up to 1,665 jobs and inject £150 million annually into the local economy.
“The scale of the scheme, combined with its curated green infrastructure and proximity to major transport links, makes it a standout opportunity to deliver sustainable, high-performance assets that meet the evolving needs of occupiers,” said Stephanie Hacking, Portfolio Fund Manager at Royal London Asset Management Property.
“We are proud to be investing in Coventry’s future and contributing to long-term economic growth.”
The development forms part of Coventry’s Eastern Green sustainable urban development area, a 435-acre site which is planned to deliver a minimum of 2250 homes and 37-acres of employment land.
A ground-breaking ceremony marking the start of development was attended by representatives from Coventry City Council, including two cabinet members, Warwickshire County Council, main contractor GMI, and letting agency teams from Darby Keye, Hollis Hockley and BNP Paribas.
“This ground-breaking is a big step forward in unlocking more employment in the city,” said councillor Jim O’Boyle, cabinet member for Jobs, regeneration and climate change
“Land that will help to attract new investment, which in turn will create jobs for local people. Foundations are being laid for sustainable economic growth in this location in the city, and it’s a clear signal that Coventry is open for business and investment.”
Cllr Naeem Akhtar, Cabinet Member for Housing and Communities, added: “The Eastern Green development scheme is more than just new homes; it’s about the essential infrastructure that comes with it, including new access routes and, of course, new business opportunities. I was delighted to be at the ground=breaking and to see first-hand what a significant investment is being made here.”
Warwickshire-based developer Graftongate says the new units are designed to meet the growing demand for mid-box space, ranging in size from 8,266 sq ft to 121,223 sq ft, and appeal to both local and national occupiers. The scheme will target a BREEAM Outstanding rating, with environment, social and governance(ESG) principles embedded into all aspects of design and delivery.
Jamie Hockaday, Director, Graftongate, said: “Pickford Interchange offers flexible units to suit a wide range of occupiers. The development combines high-quality, energy-efficient buildings with landscaped parkland, creating workspaces that support occupiers, promote wellbeing, and reflect our commitment to sustainability.”
