One of the North West's largest development sites - measuring a huge 1m sq ft - has gone on the market for industrial occupiers.
Port Cheshire, which sits between the Manchester Ship Canal and junction seven of the M53, is the only permitted site in the region with the potential for a single 1m sq ft building.
There is a working population of 1.9m within a 45 minute drive, while other occupiers nearby include Vauxhall, Regatta, Honeywell and Johnson Controls.
Peel Ports bought the site a decade ago when Bridgewater Paper closed, before decommissioning the paper mill, clearing the site and preparing it for port-related uses.
Andy Martin, Group Land and Property Director, Peel Ports, said: “We originally expected that the site would be mainly of interest to logistics firms that required a close connection to the Manchester Ship Canal. However, in the last year it has become clear that there is more interest from general industrial occupiers, resulting in the decision to promote the site to a wider range of sectors.”
Richard Johnson, Director, JLL, said: “There are very few sites of this scale, quality and flexibility available across the UK, let alone in the North West. Despite challenging circumstances, it’s clear the economy of the region is still thriving and Port Cheshire is an ideal location for businesses looking for a centrally-located opportunity.”
A launch event at the site in November was attended by more than 40 property agents, which Peel Ports said underlined the potential of the development.
JLL and B8RE are the retained agents advising Peel Ports.
The firm said the site is suitable for distribution, manufacturing, processing or open storage.
Port-related permits are in place allowing for immediate development for specific uses. Peel Ports said it was open to various options for occupiers, including design and build, plot sales, leasehold or freehold.
As well as a shipping berth, the site has a direct rail link and motorway junction access.
Significant gas, water, drainage and electric supplies remain from previous use. There is an existing CHP plant on-site.
