Newlands Developments, the specialist industrial and logistics developer, has submitted an outline planning application to Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council, for an up to 271,000 sq m distribution and employment hub at Oakdown Farm.

Basingstoke Gateway could deliver over 1,500 new full-time jobs locally (direct and indirect) and provide in excess of £100m of direct investment into the Basingstoke area on an annual basis.

A recent consultation event that comprised a virtual on-line exhibition and Q&A session on Youtube, attracted over 13,000 comments from the public with a clear majority expressing positive support for the investment and job creation.

The proposed development will accommodate up to 271,000 sq m of commercial and industrial floorspace (B8 land use), on an 82 acre site, with a new access roundabout off the A30.

Newlands Developments is a specialist industrial and logistics developer with unrivalled experience and success in delivering large scale logistics projects. If the planning application is approved, Newlands Developments would commence the development in spring 2021 creating a significant number of construction and subsequent full-time jobs in late 2021/early 2022.

Jo Davis, Principal at Avison Young, leading the consultation process, says, “Logistics is a key area for growth with significant commercial demand plus an identified need for logistics and distribution space in the Basingstoke and Deane area. The developers are already in detailed discussions with local, regional and national occupiers who have requirements in the region.”

John Barker, Development Director at Newlands confirmed, “With Basingstoke Gateway there is the potential for world class business activity to be served across the local economy. And at this time of employment uncertainty in the wider economy, a wide range of jobs will be delivered for local residents, from entry level and unskilled; apprenticeships; through to skilled technical and managerial roles.”

The application for outline planning permission will encompass storage, distribution and employment space, with ancillary offices developed over three zones. The masterplan is working towards achieving zero carbon by 2030, in line with Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council’s net zero pledge, through the use of sustainable energy, and a sustainable travel plan. Proposals include biodiversity measures; sustainable drainage ponds; bird and bat boxes in established trees; a biodiversity zone; rainwater harvesting; renewable energy provision, and safe cycle and pedestrian routes around the site.