DPD gets go ahead for net zero carbon distribution hub in Bicester

Tritax Symmetry has secured planning consent for a new parcel distribution facility for DPD at Symmetry Park, Bicester. The specialist 60,000 sq ft distribution hub will be constructed to net zero carbon in construction in line with the UK Green Building Council’s (UKGBC) framework.

Cherwell District Council (CDC) has given planning consent for what will be DPD’s 36th new format hub built in the UK since 2011, which will be delivered as an additional phase of the established Park. The developer’s commitment to achieve a net zero carbon building in construction is in line with DPD’s pledge to become the UK’s most sustainable delivery service provider.

DPD operates a net zero carbon delivery model. With over 600 electric vehicles, equal to 10% of its fleet, DPD leads the parcel sector on the move to sustainable logistics and has launched a raft of other initiatives including energy and waste management, green packaging, smart urban delivery models and the DPD Eco Fund for schools and educational facilities across the UK working on green projects.

This deal will see DPD relocate its existing operation in Bicester, and once fully operational, the new facility could create up to 250 new jobs.

Symmetry Park is already home to Bentley Designs and Medline Services with the newly completed Unit B (163,664 sq ft) available for immediate occupation. In addition, plot C is available with detailed planning consent for a unit of 334,000 sq ft.

Speaking about the agreement, Tom Leeming, Development Director at Tritax Symmetry commented: “We are thrilled to have met DPD’s specific requirements to deliver a highly sustainable net zero carbon design and build solution to support their on-going expansion, especially during these challenging times. The economic impact through the construction period and permanent jobs created at the site will be felt as an immediate boost to the local economy at a time when all business investment should be welcomed. We thank CDC and OCC for their continued support and pragmatic approach.

“DPD’s commitment to become the UK’s most sustainable delivery company is aligned to our own sustainability policy. As a business, we are factoring in environmental considerations into every aspect of our development plans, from electric vehicle charging facilities and energy centres to photo voltaic generation and other energy saving initiatives. With planning now secured, we look forward to appointing a contractor imminently and delivering a state-of-the-art net zero carbon unit for our client.”

Louise Ferguson, General Manager, Property at DPD continued: “Our new Bicester distribution centre will be a state of the art, purpose-built facility.  We already know what a fantastic location Bicester is, and Symmetry Park gives us more room and even better transport links.  This investment will allow us to expand our existing operation to meet the growing demand for our services, create a significant number of new jobs and give us space to carry on growing for a number of years.”

Colin Godfrey, CEO – Fund Management at Tritax Big Box REIT, commented: “I am pleased that we have secured planning consent for this new state of the art parcel distribution facility for DPD at Symmetry Park, Bicester. Awareness of climate change is on the rise and the property sector has a huge role to play in reducing carbon emissions, so we are delighted to see this type of leadership and commitment from DPD and to be working collaboratively with them to responsibly deliver this cleaner, more sustainable logistics asset”.