It’s all systems go with work on the first purpose-built commercial units within the Plymouth and South Devon Freeport now underway.
The Council is delivering four units which are being built on a plot in Beaumont Way, Langage, one of three Freeport tax sites. These sites are being prioritised for new and high growth businesses that can continue the region’s growth success story in the marine, defence, space, advanced manufacturing, engineering and clean energy sectors.
The units range in size from 750 square metres to just over 2,000 sqm. Inside the units will have workshop/production space, with fully fitted offices at ground and first floor level (with lift access) and welfare facilities, including showers.
Outside, each unit will have its own dedicated service yard and parking and EV charging pods. The scheme has been designed with flexibility in mind and should prove popular to a range of business needs especially being in a well-established part of the city with great connectivity to the A38.
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.
Council Leader Tudor Evans said: “And we are off! We’ve got high hopes for these buildings to be part of the region’s growth story.
“These buildings will be home to businesses who share our passion for creating jobs, skills and innovation in fast developing green and blue industries. As part of the Freeport, they can call on the expertise and know-how of businesses, partners and organisations that share the same drive.”
Richard May, CEO, Plymouth and South Devon Freeport said:
“In the two short years since the Plymouth and South Devon Freeport was given the green light we are already seeing the start of real, tangible results of what the Freeport can achieve with these new build units at Beaumont Way.
“With continued Government support for the Freeport programme we hope new and growing businesses have the confidence to accelerate their plans and consider the Freeport as a viable option for their requirements – it’s not only about the incentives and benefits to be gained by being part of the Freeport but the wraparound support with skills, innovation and collaboration.”
The scheme is forecast to cost £8 million and will receive a substantial chunk of financial support – £4 million – from the UK Government as part of the Plymouth and South Devon Freeport Seed Capital funding.
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 initial build period.
Following a competitive tender process, the Council appointed Devon Contractors to construct the scheme with the aim for the units to be ready to move into by Autumn 2025.
Nigel Whelan, Managing Director at Devon Contractors, added:
"We are thrilled to be working with Plymouth City Council on this flagship scheme at Langage South. Following our successful completion of Derriford Retail Park with Plymouth City Council, we are excited to continue our strong working relationship and providing the same dedicated delivery team.
“We are also proud to be part of the Freeport funding initiative for Plymouth, a transformative programme that will drive economic growth and innovation in the region. Our team is committed to working closely with Plymouth City Council and all stakeholders to ensure we achieve these shared goals. This project is a fantastic opportunity for Plymouth and Devon Contractors, and we look forward to sharing our progress as we help shape the future of the city."
The Langage Tax Site is the largest of the three tax sites for the Freeport, located 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
Once finished, the completed development will be available to occupy by eligible tenants. 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 Robert.McGuffie@Plymouth.gov.uk or information about the Freeport contact Eifion.Jones@pasdfreeport.com