Construction of B&Q’s new DC underway

Construction company Gazeley began work today on a new 797,000 sq ft distribution centre for DIY & home improvements retailer B&Q.

Based in G. Park, Swindon the new building will create around 600 retail jobs and cost an estimated £70 million once completed.

The new centre will provide a regional hub for the retailer, providing for B&Q stores across the south of England.

Bob Brown, Senior Investment & Development Manager at B&Q, commented: “This investment in a new regional distribution centre will help to improve customer service across the south of England.

“We are delighted that Gazeley is developing the facility and look forward to seeing the finished building in the near future.”

Green initiatives will be a large part of the built-to-suit development with 500 new trees to be planted around the site during the build.

A solar wall will provide energy for the centre and rainwater collected from the completed building’s roof will be re-used on site.

Gazeley and B&Q have also agreed with Swindon Borough Council to upgrade parts of the local road system and donate £150,000 for the provision of local art and £700,000 to be invested in the Great Western Community Forest.

Nigel Godfrey, UK Senior Vice President for Gazeley, said: “This development is in a sought-after location and will offer B&Q a high-quality logistics centre that incorporates superb eco-credentials as well as providing a huge boost to the local economy.

“This is the biggest development of its kind currently being built in the UK and to deliver the warehouse to B&Q by June 2011 is a challenge that we look forward to meeting.”

Source : John Whiteaker – Retail Gazette
www.retailgazette.co.uk/articles/31342-construction-of-bqs-new-dc-under-way