Sizewell C leases giant Orwell Logistics Park in Ipswich

By Nick Osbourne | Published on 31 July 2024 | 3 min read
  • 1m sq ft of space available for peak construction
  • One of the largest lettings transactions in the UK
  • Local storage of equipment will support efficient construction

Sizewell C has agreed the lease of Orwell Logistics Park (OLP) in Ipswich, owned by BGO, representing one of the largest letting transactions in the UK.

After securing its Nuclear Site Licence earlier this year, and with work progressing on site, this latest transaction is a significant milestone that will play a crucial role in supporting the supply chain requirements for the construction of the power station.

The new site, conveniently located for the project on the A14 between Ipswich and the Port of Felixstowe, will provide Sizewell C with just over 1m square feet of space. It will mean the project can store and access key equipment local to the Sizewell C site, creating significant efficiencies during the construction period.

Orwell Logistics Park will also be the new location for Sizewell C’s Freight Management Facility (FMF), which will ensure a controlled pattern of deliveries to Sizewell C, enabling reduced movements during peak or sensitive hours. Sizewell C had previously earmarked a site at Levington, to the south-east of Ipswich, for its FMF, but after local consultation and with the preferred location available, the facility will now be based at OLP.

Sizewell C will occupy two completed units on the site, as well as agreeing to pre-let the remaining units and open storage plot.

Nigel Cann, Sizewell C Joint Managing Director, said: “After starting formal construction this year, this is yet another big step forward for Sizewell C. Orwell Logistics Park is an excellent solution for our logistics and freight management – and it will be a crucial location for us as we begin the gradual ramp-up to peak construction over the next five years, whilst showing due consideration to our host communities.”

Orwell Logistics Park, acquired by BGO with development partner, Equation Properties, in December 2020, is a new industrial/distribution development strategically located on the A14 between Ipswich and the Port of Felixstowe, one of the UK’s largest deepwater ports which accounts for almost 50% of all containerised trade in the country. The site spans a total of 60 acres with a total floor area of just under 1.1m sq. ft.

Gareth Purcell, Managing Partner at BGO, said: “We are thrilled to welcome Sizewell C to Orwell Logistics Park and support the supply chain for this critical piece of national energy infrastructure. This major letting demonstrates the continued delivery across our Grade-A, UK logistics platform.”

Richard Batham-Read, Managing Director at Equation Properties, said: “The commitment from Sizewell C is a major validation for the vision we have had for this project, underpinning our belief in the location representing a great opportunity to capitalise on the strategic highway network and occupational requirements emanating from Port activities.”

Posted by Nick Osbourne

Nick is Sizewell C's Media Relations Manager