Hopes for 1,700 jobs as firm buys Yorkshire warehouse site

Gazeley, which is part of Economics Zones World, a Dubai World company, bought the land at West Moor Park on the outskirts of Armthorpe, Doncaster, for an undisclosed sum from Blue Anchor Leisure.

Doncaster Council granted outline planning permission in December 2009 for the £100m development of three large warehouses, despite opposition from residents about increased traffic congestion.

The site is located off Junction 4 of the M18, adjacent to the earlier phases of West Moor Park, which are home to Ikea, Scotts Miracle-Gro and Next.

When developed, the new scheme is expected to create in the region of 1,700 ware- housing, office and managerial jobs.

The development manager at Gazeley, Nigel Dolan, said: “This highly sought-after site is an excellent addition to our growing portfolio and will further enhance our presence in a key logistics region in the UK.

“South Yorkshire is home to some of the UK’s leading distribution facilities and we can deliver bespoke, high quality logistics accommodation on a design and build basis for occupiers who want to capitalise on the site’s key location. The potential for job creation is immense and we look forward to opening negotiations with occupiers.”

Roger Haworth, senior director at CB Richard Ellis, which is marketing the site alongside Jones Lang LaSalle, added: “West Moor Park has a proven track record as a well located logistics hub in South Yorkshire which is evidenced by its high profile occupiers and the recent expansion of Next within the earlier phase of the park.”