Vancouver-based Epta Development Corporation (EDC) has acquired a prominent 100-acre redevelopment property commonly known as Avlon Works in Severnside, South Gloucestershire.
Epta Development Corporation envision the unused site being transformed into a world-class logistics and distribution park. (Subject to planning permission.) EDC have mobilized their contractors to start decommissioning, asset recovery, and the demolition of existing structures on the property. The intent is to make the land development-ready by spring 2022.
The Avonmouth Severnside Enterprise Area is a popular strategic location for logistics operators due to its ease of access to the M49, M4, and M5 motorways.
Several proposed infrastructure projects will help strengthen the area as an attractive and viable long-term location for future investment. These include the new M49 junction, increased rail services to Severn Beach Line, and flood defence works.
“We couldn’t be more pleased that our first major investment in the UK is taking place in the south west, with everything this region has to offer alongside the real-time market growth that’s happening in this asset class,” says Chris Tsakumis, Principal of EDC. “As a foreign investor entering a market for the first time, there’s always some initial trepidation and heartburn that ensues. Our experience on the ground — from the planning authority at South Glos to stakeholders such as West of England Combined Authority and Invest Bristol & Bath to local business — has been extremely positive to date. This region offers a welcoming investment environment in many ways.”
Dan Norris, the West of England Metro Mayor adds, “I’m pleased that the former manufacturing site will be getting a new lease of life which will bring more jobs and opportunities. This is a vote of confidence in the West of England as a place to do business.”
Notably, the UK Minister for Investment, Gerry Grimstone said, “It’s great that Canadian firm Epta Development Corporation has chosen to build their logistics and distribution park in South Gloucestershire, an extremely well-connected part of the South West where they will be able to grow and take advantage of all that the region has to offer.
“Their investment into the UK market will not only help boost capacity in our growing logistics sector, but also create jobs and economic growth that will level up the whole of the UK.”