SGP oversees expansion of popular Essex business park

Stephen George + Partners (SGP) is working with client Panattoni on the latest phase of Panattoni Park Braintree, a popular business park near Braintree, with excellent connections to London and the East Midlands.

Phase 2 is an additional 33.5 acre extension to the existing site, accommodating over 550,000 sqft of logistics and employment accommodation. Unit 1, now underway with steelwork in progress, is a 168,020 sqft (GIA) warehouse with a 12,645 sqft open plan office plus associated service yard, parking and landscaping. SGP has submitted detailed plans for an additional three units, which will complete the phase.

Says Robert Bannerman, Architectural Technologist at SGP: “Panattoni Park Braintree sits in a strategic position, making it an advantageous location for a range of businesses. We worked closely with Panattoni to develop the consented design for Unit 1 to both integrate with the existing park and bring it more in line with Panattoni’s recognisable design code. Our client was particularly determined to enhance the outside amenity space with holistic and inclusive landscaping, especially as the site nestles against farmland and has Great Notley Park on its borders.”

There is an emphasis on green space and amenities has created extensive landscaping, with green buffers around site, a trim trail, benches and picnic seating. Water has key part in the design with a central green / blue way corridor which runs through the site, lined with trees, grass and swales. Another waterway along the edge of the unit uses the natural slope to run into an attenuation pond. The focus is on keeping the existing trees where possible, with plans to hand dig sections of the trim trail to protect tree roots. In addition to supporting the mental and physical health of the workforce, the landscaping will improve local biodiversity and the site’s connection with its surrounding environment, including to existing walking trails and bridle paths that link to the wider countryside.

SGP has submitted detailed planning permission for three units to complete this phase with the aim of starting work in Autumn 2025. The submission includes Unit 2, a 235,719 sqft (GIA) warehouse with internal and hub offices and a gatehouse, plus two more units of 96,000 sqft (GIA) and 61,500 sqft (GIA).

Concludes Marcus Madden-Smith, Partner at SGP: “The proposed development will serve as an attractive, innovative addition to the adjacent Horizon 120 Business and Innovation Park, whilst delivering Panattoni’s statement design and quality build.”