Amazon-like occupier for Ely warehouse

By Liza Helps, Property Editor, Logistics Matters

THE PROPOSALS for the 34.3 acres Ely Gateway site were revealed in an Environmental Impact assessment Scoping Report by Stantec on behalf of developer Newlands Developments. The scheme would consist of a 134,548 ft2 single storey warehouse unit with building heights of up to 14.2m above ground level where HGVs will deliver goods overnight to be sorted and distributed the next day via vans. The occupiers who is associated with the scheme intends to operate 24/7.

There are 705 operational van storage spaces on the site in addition to parking for 183 cars and 25 motorcycles.

In its consultation for the scheme Newlands Developments noted: “Van drivers will depart the site following a pre-determined route designed to minimise impact on local roads, and return 10 hours later. There will be no return trips during this time.”

The schematics of the proposed development are reminiscent of similar last mile delivery sites  brought forward by Amazon in other locations in the UK.

The developer intends to deliver the facility with an EPC A rating and a high BREEAM rating.

In its consultation Newlands Developments said: “This project will generate around 600 jobs during the construction stage. A further 600-800 jobs will also be created when the scheme is in operation depending on the output and time of year.

“A diverse range of roles will be available, from logistics management and technical positions to administration and on-site operations, offering genuine long-term career paths for local people.”

In addition to the warehouse the developer is looking to construct two new junctions would be created from Angle Drove, which would be accessed A142 Ely Southern Bypass, as well as footway and cycleway access through a shared three metre wide to the north of the site. 

Specific details will be set out in a planning application due to be submitted in the early autumn.