Former Comet hub likely to attract ‘strong interest’

Strong interest is anticipated for the former Comet distribution hub in Skelmersdale, with few similar alternatives available within the region.

Property consultants GVA and Jones Lang LaSalle have been instructed to dispose of the site.

Place North West understands that there has already been interest in the 472,000 sq ft warehouse, with tenants likely to fall within the supermarket and retail sectors.

Situated on a 29.5 acre site, the warehouse was one of two national hubs used by the collapsed electrical retailer. It was built in 2006.

The agents say that the shed is the biggest fully fitted, high-specification unit remaining in the North West and one of the few large Grade A sites in the entire regional market.

The space is available on either a freehold or leasehold basis.

Known as XL, the site also includes a two-storey office block and has the potential to be expanded over adjacent land up to a total of 740,000 sq ft.

Dan Burn, JLL's Manchester-based director and head of industrial and logistics, said: "With several significant requirements in the North West market and build to suit solutions the only route available for them, the emergence of a fully-fitted, high-specification site such as this will inevitably attract strong interest."

Robert Dunston, senior director, industrial and logistics at GVA, adds "The site itself is strategically located – being one of Comet's two national distribution centres – within the M6, M58, M57 and M62 quadrant.

"Coupled with a pre-existing skilled workforce and supported by a proactive local college willing to provide retraining and this is becomes a rare and compelling offer for potential occupiers."