Homes builder to create jobs with opening of UK distribution centre in Peterborough

Developer Taylor Wimpey is transferring its logistics operations to a 189,687 sq ft warehouse on Kingston Park, Fletton.

The move will bring a much-needed employment boost to Peterborough with the creation of 60 jobs.

The jobs will be a mix of permanent and agency staff.

The company says it is moving its UK distribution centre to Peterborough from Newmarket and plans to have the new warehouse operational towards the end of March next year.

It says the site is seen as the ideal location from which to provide a national distribution centre for the delivery of building products and materials to its house building sites across the UK.

A Taylor Wimpey spokesman said: “We chose Peterborough for its central location, allowing us to improve supply of building products to our sites across the UK whilst enabling existing staff to easily relocate.”

Taylor Wimpey has agreed a lease on the premises, which were the home of disposable cup manufacturer Dart Products Europe until it pulled out of the city in 2019.

A spokesman for the firms involved in the deal said: “This was one of the most multi-layered transactions during the recent COVID-19 lockdown.

“It has resulted in Bidwells and Knight Frank brokering a deal involving a surrender and new lease on the warehouse.”

“The result culminated in Dart Products Europe being released from its ongoing lease liabilities, Taylor Wimpey UK acquiring a new UK National Distribution Centre and owners Logicor securing a new occupier.

Patrick Stanton, Head of Industrial and Logistics at Bidwells, said: “We are very pleased to have advised Dart on this substantial lease disposal.

“Taking account of all costs, Dart was holding an eight-figure liability sum on this property so we are delighted to have successfully removed this obligation from its balance sheet. All parties worked tirelessly and diligently in identifying a solution that benefited all involved, which was refreshing given the current market circumstances.”

Mike Best, Asset Manager at Logicor, said: “We were delighted to be able to help in securing the best solution for Dart.

“And of course, it’s great to welcome Taylor Wimpey, a new customer within our UK portfolio.”

Simon Warren, Partner Logistics and Industrial at Knight Frank, said: “After a substantial review of Taylor Wimpey’s existing properties and business operations, we are delighted to have acquired the premises to provide a national distribution centre.

“We will project manage the modification and fit out of the building over the next few months prior to operations commencing next year.”

Nick Wright, Supply Chain Director at Taylor Wimpey UK, said: “We are pleased to have completed the deal on this warehouse.

“This is an important milestone for Taylor Wimpey UK as we continue to look for ways to streamline our business operations.”