VolkerFitzpatrick recently completed the development of two, large-scale distribution warehouses at Mulberry Logistics Park, Doncaster, one of the UK’s largest, flexible logistics parks.
The design and build contract was completed towards the end of last year, and included the construction of one 500,000ft2 unit and one 550,000ft2 unit, each equating to the size of over seven football pitches.
Both state-of-the-art warehouses consist of a portal steel frame superstructure with built-up cladding system, curtain walling and glazing system on office elevations to improve natural lighting, and pre-cast concrete dock levellers. The offices are equipped with automatic movement and daylight controls and energy monitoring systems.
Externally, a new road junction, bus-stops and cycle-paths have been created, along with landscaping in keeping with the area. Due to the location of the site and the concrete volumes required, an onsite batching plant, providing ready mixed concrete was installed. This was critical to ensure the project was completed within the scheduled timeframe.
Throughout the construction, VolkerFitzpatrick also undertook trials of Solar Pod 30 electricity generators, to see whether financial and carbon savings outweighed the initial hire cost. The trials, which took place over 9 weeks, resulted in financial savings of more than £7,500 across two separate projects.
During the construction of the two buildings, over £6 million has been returned to the local economy in social value. The business engaged with nearby schools and the local community, including working with supply chain contractors from the surrounding area, providing over £4 million employment opportunities and six weeks of work placements over the course of the project.
On top of this, the project the team worked with HM Prison Hatfield and PSR Solutions, a leading provider of personnel in the construction industry, to support an offender into sustainable employment. The project provided paid work for a full-time labourer who was Released On Temporary License (ROTL), who also independently took on additional training and qualifications to secure future employment on full release from prison.
The buildings achieved an ‘Excellent’ BREEAM rating overall and both units have been occupied successfully by Eddie Stobart Limited.