IM Properties secures pre-lets from Halfords and Tool Station22nd April 2012

IM Properties has secured pre-lets from Halfords Autocentres and Tool Station for the trade counter scheme it began speculatively building at Longwell Green Trade Park in Bristol earlier this year.

IM is developing seven trade counter units and has planning permission for an 18,000 sq ft self-storage unit at the prime trade park, which is just five miles from Bristol city centre, off the busy A4174 Bristol Ring Road and surrounded by some of the best known names in retail including Homebase, B&Q and Marks & Spencer.

Halfords Autocentres and Tool Station have both confirmed they will take 4,000 sq ft units. The remaining five trade counter units range between 2,920 sq ft and 5,500 sq ft, allowing uses B1(c) (business industrial), B2 (general industrial) and B8 (storage and distribution) with Ancillary Trade.
IM Properties secured detailed planning consent in January and construction began in March. The scheme is set to be ready for occupiers in the summer and will create up to 70 job opportunities in the city.

Lewis Payne, Development Manager at IM Properties, said: “In today's market a speculatively built scheme is a rarity. However securing commitment from high profile names like Halfords Autocentres and Tool Station justifies our decision to commence construction.”

Gordon Reynolds, of agents Cushman & Wakefield, added: “High levels of interest in this trade counter scheme demonstrates there is a pent up demand for good quality trade counter premises in Bristol and highlights Longwell Green Trade Park’s excellent position.”

Each of the available units has a double height glazed feature entrance, 7.2m minimum clear internal height, 37.5 kN/m2 floor loading, overhead sectional loading door and substantial signage panels. Quoting rent is £12 per sq ft.