SGP hands over “last mile” industrial scheme in south-east London

Stephen George + Partners (SGP) celebrates the completion of the new 93,984 sqft last-mile logistics scheme at Blueprint Erith in South East London, for commercial real estate investor and developer Firethorn Trust and investor Cain International.

SGP was novated to contractor Glencar as delivery architect for the scheme which saw the replacement of an existing warehouse and yard with four modern single storey terraced warehouse units and external site works including hardstanding, car parking, landscaping and drainage. The units range from 19,374 sqft to 31,355 sqft, and have a clear height to the underside of the haunch of 12 metres, internal Grade A office space and mezzanine storage.

Comments Arshad Khan, Studio Director at SGP: “We used materials and finishes in line with Firethorn’s high specification design blueprint, applying flat panels to accentuate the office and glazing to the undercroft. The most challenging aspect of the build was the difference in site levels, with the access road being significantly lower than the units. Our solution met Building Regulations whilst optimising buildability and our changes to the original design allowed for the required means of escape and retained clear access for emergency services.”

The scheme was delivered to net-zero carbon in construction, achieving a BREEAM ‘Very Good’ and an EPC A rating, with 15% rooflight coverage, 13 EV charging points and LED lighting. A Photovoltaic ‘ready’ roof structure will provide for future full PV coverage, should a tenant require it.

Externally, the existing overgrown landscape has been replaced with a planned planting regime of trees, shrubs and grass to support a wide range of wildlife whilst also being easily maintained.

Says James Nicholls, Managing Partner: “This new scheme is the latest in a long line of SGP warehouse and logistics projects that deliver flexible, modern, high quality industrial space, replacing old facilities that are not up to current requirements, maximising industrial employment areas and creating attractive and sustainable buildings that will meet tenants’ needs for years to come.”

The new units are in the heart of the thriving ‘Church Manorway industrial area’ which stretches from the A206 to the river Thames and includes several wharves. The site is conveniently located for easy access to the M25 at Dartford, within reach of more than half a million households, with direct access to Central London and the wider City of London motorway network.