Network Space picks up former Halewood HQ

The developer has acquired the 28-acre site previously occupied by a wine and spirits distillery, and intends to redevelop it to house small-to-medium sized urban logistics operations.

Halewood has now moved its HQ to London, and shifted much of its operational work to its Chorley base last year before putting the Huyton site, which it had occupied since 2000, up for sale in October.

The Sovereign Distillery comprises 446,151 sq ft of industrial space, which Network Space has now acquired the freehold of following a competitive tendering process.

The sale price was undisclosed, although Place North West understands that the asking price of £15m was met.

Halewood will continue to occupy half of the site for storage and distribution through a leaseback arrangement in the short to medium term.

Network Space said it intends to refurbish and redevelop the site to create a multi-let employment scheme. The company last month raised £40m through the sale of a UK-wide portfoloi including two sites in Liverpool.

Richard Ainscough, group chief executive of Network Space, said: “The acquisition of this high-profile, exceptionally well-located site provides a fantastic opportunity. We plan to maximise its potential through a part demolition, part refurbishment and part new build strategy.

“When finished, the site will provide small to mid-size urban logistics units, perfectly suited for e-commerce as well as regional distribution.”

The self-contained site at Huyton Business Park is located adjacent to the M62/M57 intersection.

B8RE and Gateley represented Network Space, while Savills acted for Halewood Artisanal Spirits.