Sheffield-based Henry Boot announced that HBD, the group’s property investment and development arm, has completed a £15 million GDV industrial & logistics (I&L) unit at Airport Business Park Southend (ABPS), while also being granted planning permission to bring forward a further 75,000 sq ft.

“In April 2023, HBD agreed to develop a 140,000 sq ft freehold design and build unit for Ipeco Holdings (‘Ipeco’), one of the world’s leading manufacturers in aircraft seating,” said Henry Boot.

“Practical completion was achieved in June 2024 and Ipeco has now taken occupation of the building. This more than doubles their manufacturing space at ABPS, less than two years after moving into a 124,000 sq. ft. purpose-built unit and demonstrates both the high quality of the ABPS scheme and the strong partnership between HBD and IPECO.

“HBD has also received planning permission for a further 75,000 sq ft across two units at ABPS. These will be marketed to potential occupiers on a design and build basis and anticipates works on start commencing in Q1 2025.

“ABPS is a 52 acre I&L scheme in Southend, Essex, delivered in partnership between HBD and Southend-on-Sea City Council. It represents a £150 million investment in best-in-class spaces and infrastructure, including ‘Launchpad’, a new innovation facility hub spanning 3,254 square meters. “

Henry Boot CEO Tim Roberts said: “HBD’s practical completion and further expansion at ABPS is testament to the quality and appeal of the premium, purpose-built sites we design and deliver, which are highly sought after by occupiers.

“We look forward to maintaining our partnership with Southend-on-Sea City Council as Airport Business Park Southend continues to establish itself as a leading industrial and logistics hub in the region, welcoming businesses of all sizes to expand and innovate.

“Additionally, achieving further planning permission allows us to continue to meet high occupier demand and ease the critical undersupply of industrial space that exists in the Southend area.”