Two new production/warehouse facilities, bringing additional jobs for local people, could shortly be built in Desborough – on development land that had previously received planning consent for a waste energy plant, despite some local resistance.
Regional developer Hampton Brook has recently submitted two planning applications for the construction of just under 90,000 sq ft of high specification commercial space at its Magnetic Park scheme on Eagle Avenue, for Dunkelman & Son Limited and Partridges UK. The existing three phases of the Park were completed between 2006 and 2012; now home to occupiers including Great Bear Distribution, O.Kay Engineering and Jacaranda Carpets.
Ian Jackson, Development Director of Hampton Brook, says: “Magnetic Park is an attractive location for businesses, providing excellent nationwide connectivity. The renewed interest in design and build projects further recognises that there is a significant shortage of quality, modern industrial space in the area.”
The largest facility is for Desborough based company Dunkelman & Son Limited who design, manufacture and distribute shoe care accessories under the Dasco brand. The company is currently based in Gold Street, but will be moving to the new site following the restructuring of the company, subsequent to being acquired by Alma FRC in February 2015. Initial construction would be for a 40,650 sq ft building that would provide the company with a bespoke solution to accommodate its specialist needs, but also allowing Dunkleman an area for future expansion as the business continues to develop and grow.
Partridges UK’s facility will also offer a future proof solution for business growth. The 2.15 acre plot will initially accommodate a 27,000 sq ft production facility to satisfy the company’s print, warehousing, mailing services and fulfilment activities. The family run and owned company is currently based in Wellingborough, but looking to relocate to Desborough having outgrown its existing premises and as it expands, increase its number of employees by at least 20.
Ian Jackson adds: “Kettering Borough Council has now started the consultation period on both these applications, which we hope will be favourably received. We are sure the additional job creation that these new facilities could bring to Desborough will help the town during its forthcoming period of change, with the residential development around the area set to transform the scale of the population.”
“Once planning is approved, we will be looking to break ground as soon as the end of April, with the companies in occupation before Christmas.”
Upon completion of the development, the freehold interests will pass to Dunkleman & Son and Partridge UK respectively. Hampton Brook was represented by in the transactions by Lambert Smith Hampton and Budworth Hardcastle.
