The acquisition, with outline planning consent for up to 1.64 million sq ft of industrial and logistics space, signals Mountpark’s confidence in the UK logistics market and its intent to deliver high-quality, employment-led regeneration.
Warburtons, the UK’s largest bakery brand, has signed a 20-year pre-lease to become the first occupier of Mountpark Ferrybridge. Site preparations are now underway to deliver a 65,800 sq ft facility which will become the firm’s 18th UK distribution depot. The property will be the first building to rise on the site, with vertical construction scheduled to begin in December.
“Mountpark Ferrybridge is an important acquisition and a clear demonstration of our belief in the Yorkshire region,” said Brett Huxley, Development Director for Mountpark UK & Ireland. “Ferrybridge is a site with deep industrial roots, and we’re proud to be building on that legacy with a development that is reflective of the significance of this location. Securing Warburtons, a respected industry leader with strong northern roots, as our first occupier, is a clear vote of confidence in the site’s future potential. This is our third scheme in Yorkshire and builds on the dearth of prime development supply along the M62 corridor. Warburton’s decision to choose Mountpark reflects our reputation for delivery and our shared ambition to bring jobs and investment, to the region.”
James Norton, Head of Distribution Network Transformation for Warburtons said: “As the UK’s largest bakery brand, we have an opportunity to lead the way. That’s not just about the products we produce, but also about how and where we make and distribute them. The new depot at Ferrybridge is designed with sustainability in mind, which aligns with our own core values, as well as enabling us to expand our logistics capacity in Yorkshire and beyond, by building on the efficiencies and customer service standards our customers already enjoy.”
Located at the strategic intersection of the M62 and A1(M), Mountpark secured outline planning consent for up to 1.64 million sq ft of industrial and logistics space at the 110-acre Ferrybridge site in summer 2024. The company has now submitted Reserved Matters Applications for a 40,000 sq ft facility, a 647,000 sq ft cross-dock facility, and a three-unit configuration ranging from 70,000 sq ft to 330,000 sq ft. Buildings are expected to be delivered speculatively from end of 2026.
Mountpark Ferrybridge reflects Mountpark’s approach to integrating responsible development as part of its developments. The development will retain the site’s existing railway sidings and incorporate enhanced landscaping, footpaths, and cycleways to reconnect Ferrybridge with the local community. Once complete, the scheme has the ability to generate over 2,000 jobs and attract significant inward investment.
Mountpark’s joint agents on the scheme are Carter Towler, JLL and Carter Jonas. Warburtons’ agent on the scheme is JLL.
The wider project team includes Oxalis Planning, SMR Architects, Markides Associates, Ridge and Partners, SK Environmental, BWB, Marsh & Baxter Ltd, Gordons LLP, Quartz Project Services, Mountford Pigott LLP and Cudd Bentley.
