The steel frames for the first purpose-built commercial units within the Plymouth and South Devon Freeport are now up and work is powering ahead on the site that is destined to be home to high growth industries.
The Council is delivering four units on a plot in Beaumont Way, Langage – one of three Freeport tax sites as part of the region’s continuing success story in the marine, defence, space, advanced manufacturing, engineering and clean energy sectors.
Devon Contractors, who have only been on site since December, are cracking on with the task to build the units which range in size from 750 square metres to just over 2,000 sqm.
These pictures show how far the work has come, with the roof cladding finished for three of the four units as well as creating the first internal floor within all units. External drainage work is almost complete and internal drainage progressing well.
The units will have workshop/production space inside with fully fitted offices at ground and first floor level (with lift access) and welfare facilities, including showers.
Each will have its own dedicated service yard, parking and EV charging pod and the units will be highly sustainable and incorporate technology to minimise carbon emissions and running costs, including solar photo-voltaic panels, increased levels of insulation, higher levels of natural daylight and ventilation and highly efficient heating systems. The units are being designed and built to BREEAM Excellent standards and Net Zero status.
Plymouth City Council Leader Tudor Evans said:
“It’s great to see so much progress on this important site and it’s great to know that we are already getting a significant amount of enquiries from interested companies. They must be the right fit for the Freeport, but the signs are really encouraging!”
The development has been made possible thanks to a £4 million Freeport seed capital funding, match funded by Plymouth City Council. Once complete, it is expected to support around 138 full time jobs and associated long term spin off benefits, not to mention the construction and supply chain employment during the build period.
Devon Contractors are on target to finish the scheme in time for units to be ready to move into by Autumn 2025.
Nigel Whelan, Managing Director of Devon Contractors, said:
“We’re making excellent progress on site at Langage and its a testament to the collaborative spirit across the board.
Our supply chain, consultants, suppliers and the client team have all come together as one, working seamlessly to drive the project forward. This level of co-operation is what allows us to maintain momentum and deliver with confidence. We’re particularly excited to be launching our work placements schools projects next month – a great opportunity to engage the next generation and share in the future of construction.”
The Langage Tax Site is the largest of three tax sites for the Freeport and is on the edge of the existing Langage Business Park. It is strategically significant as it provides the space and opportunities to support sector growth plans and economic specialisation, underpinning the Freeport’s trade and investment objectives.
Eligible businesses that are part of the Freeport can take advantage of a range of tax and customs benefits and incentives to support growth, innovation and investment in the South West, including business rates relief, employer National Insurance contributions rate relief, stamp duty land tax relief, capital allowances, VAT and tariff benefits and simplified import procedures.
As this site is part of the Freeport designated tax site, eligible tenants must specialise in either marine, defence, space, advanced manufacturing, engineering or clean energy.
Interested parties should contact LAPT@Plymouth.gov.uk or information about the Freeport contact Eifion.Jones@pasdfreeport.com