Operational from July 2020
One of Europe’s largest flooring distributors is now well established on disused land in Ipswich after Planning Direct secured planning permission for the giant distribution centre.
Headlam Group plc did operate from a site in Hadleigh but had outgrown its premises. Planning Direct has helped the Group obtain Planning Permission to redevelop the derelict HARRIS WAY site.
The chosen site is part of the Hadleigh Road Industrial Estate, Elton Park Industrial Area, and Boss Hall business park. The land was occupied by the Harris Bacon Factory for many years until it closed in the 1990s. The site was sold for redevelopment as a business park soon after and all buildings were then demolished.
The land wasdeveloped for a distribution centre (class B8) which would occupies most of the old factory site. A small triangular area at the front remains for future development in accordance with the Council’s planning policy for the site.
Ipswich Borough Council’s planning committee delegated the decision to the head of planning to approve once details over paths and a bridge were ironed out.
Steve Wilson, chief executive of Headlam, said: “We have long planned to upgrade our distribution centre in this part of the country and am pleased that, subject to resolving a few outstanding matters, it is finally coming to fruition.
“We look forward to having a positive impact in the area, including through time, adding additional employment.”
The land off Harris Way was formerly run by a bacon factory and abattoir, and in recent years has only partly been used for car storage.
The news means that development behind Anglia Retail Park by the firm will no longer be needed, although it is believed that land is still designated for employment use under local plans.
During last month’s planning committee, councillor Colin Kreidewolf said it represented a “word of support in economic development” in the town and “significant increase in employment use”.
Andrew Cann, Director of Planning Direct says
“Planning Direct worked with Ipswich Borough Council to achieve Planning Permission very swiftly for this major development. The warehouse, is the largest commercial development in Ipswich for decades. It will provide 150 jobs and represents a major economic boost for Ipswich and demonstrates the confidence the business community has to invest here”
The site off Harris Way, Ipswich, which Headlam Group is planning to develop for its distribution centre