During this complex project, we worked in close conjunction with key stakeholders – including the tenant Groupe CAT – to ensure the delivery of high-quality architectural and engineering services. This close collaborative effort has transformed a former vehicle storage compound into a new £14 million automotive logistics centre.

Following our masterplan for the overall site vision, our experts collaborated with Rockingham Logistics Hub and the wider delivery team from the project’s earliest stages in order to integrate the tenant’s refurbishment process and facilities, including some existing equipment, into the new development. The complex 27-hectare site was an ironstone quarry in the 1950s and part of the site was used for landfill from the 1970s onwards. In 1999, the site was then repurposed to form the visitors’ car park for the former Rockingham Motor Speedway.

During delivery, we worked with main contractor Core Special Projects, optimising the design solutions to complement Groupe CAT’s operations. Earthworks created new levels across the site and comprehensive drainage solutions were put in place, incorporating a new attenuation pond and connections to the existing infrastructure on site. A raft foundation solution was built for the new 54,000 sq ft car maintenance facility as well as ancillary structures for site security, vehicle washing and the latest photo imaging technology. Electric charging facilities were integrated into the schemes with future proofing and expansion at the centre of the design, allowing for the tenant to easily expand as the electric car becomes more prominent in the UK market.

The development will become the UK’s newest centre for automotive logistics, used for refreshing used vehicles prior to distribution to dealership forecourts. Complementing the maintenance facility, the finished site will include vehicle storage areas, concrete transporter yard, security gatehouse, permeable paving staff car park, fueling area and more.