The first two tenants have been secured at the 121,000 sq ft speculative industrial and trade counter development in Winsford, which has now completed.
The project, backed by the North West Evergreen Fund, was developed by Maple Grove Developments, part of Eric Wright Group, working in a joint venture with Kier Property Developments and Yorvale. Main contractor HP Construction completed the scheme this month.
Trade merchant Screwfix is due to open an outlet in November, having signed a pre-let on a 6,000 sq ft unit last year. Meanwhile Toolstation, which also sells building equipment, has signed to occupy 3,000 sq ft.
Both firms signed 10-year leases on their respective units.
Designed by Fletcher Rae Architects, the industrial scheme – part of the Winsford Industrial Estate – comprises 13 units in total.
The scheme is located on Road One on Winsford Industrial Estate and the units range from 3,000 sq ft to 26,620 sq ft.
Cheshire West and Chester Council granted the developers planning permission in February 2019 and construction started that October.
Karen Hirst, managing director at Maple Grove Developments, said: “The small- to mid-box market is proving to be extremely resilient and we are pleased to have produced a flexible modern accommodation on a speculative basis to meet demand from businesses wanting to be based in one of Cheshire’s most sought-after industrial locations.”
Leigh Thomas, managing director of Kier Property, added: “This is a major milestone in the development of Artis Park. It is great to see the site regenerated and creating new employment opportunities in Winsford.
“Despite the challenging backdrop, the scheme continues to attract new enquiries and viewings from a range of local and national companies who are looking to grow.”
Legat Owen and Gerald Eve are the joint agents for the scheme.
Screwfix was represented by Colliers International and Toolstation was represented by Adept Consultancy UK.
The quoting rent is £6.75/ sq ft to £8.00/ sq ft depending on unit size.