Aviva reworks 13-acre Eccles last-mile logistics

More than two years after obtaining consent for a 230,000 sq ft development off Lankro Way, the investment giant is seeking permission for a series of tweaks to pave the way for the project’s start on site.

Under revised plans, Aviva would still deliver seven units on the 13-acre Eccles site but the overall amount of floorspace would be reduced by 21,800 sq ft to 218,200 sq ft.

This change follows a “comprehensive review” of the scheme’s design in light of shifting occupier requirements, construction cost inflation, and the need to “avoid disturbance to the main sewer running through the site”, according to a planning statement prepared by Turley.

The reduction in the project’s scale is unlikely to have much of an impact on its desirability. Turley’s statement said Aviva has consulted with agents who confirmed the development remains “very attractive to the market in providing much-needed, flexible logistics space… particularly [for] those operating within the fast-growing ‘last mile’ delivery sector”.

Located on the banks of the Manchester Ship Canal, Aviva Investors’ site was last occupied in part by Agelco, a shipping container refurbishment and modular unit hire firm.

SMR Architects, transport consultancy Vectos, Aspect Landscape Planning are also advising Aviva on the proposals.