Latest Phase at Prologis RFI DIRFT Completed

Stephen George + Partners (SGP) is celebrating the completion of the latest two distribution centres at Prologis’ RFI DIRFT (Daventry International Rail Freight Terminal) – the UK’s largest rail-served logistics park. SGP worked closely with Prologis and the tenant, Warrens Group, on the two build-to-suit units, DC6 (232,302 sqft) and DC7 (281,890 sqft), developing the base build to Warrens’ specific needs. The two units include an outboard office, hub office, external amenities, service yards and parking with EV charging points.

The warehouses occupy a very prominent position on site, being visible from three key roads through development and with vehicle and pedestrian access along all sides. SGP added feature cladding to enhance the visual aspect of the facades, whilst keeping the clean, simple lines of the structure as a whole. The two units were also designed to be either fully independent or combined into a single unit, with, for example back-to-back service yards which can be opened up into one area.

“The emphasis on sustainability in the design of these units is not only an outcome of Prologis’ commitment to meeting its global net zero in operation 2030 target but also reflects SGP’s own environmental conscience and focus on social responsibility. Both DC6 and DC7 are BREEAM-rated “Excellent”, with an EPC A rating and are carbon neutral in construction, certified by Planet Mark. This means that all of the carbon built into the structure during construction has been measured, reduced through proactive design and then mitigated.” Explains Richard Smyth, Partner at SGP.

DIRFT is home to many household brands, including some of the UK’s biggest retailers, such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, Dunelm and Royal Mail.

This is the latest phase of the DIRFT development and units DC9 and DC10 are currently under construction.