Patrick starts strongly at Graphite

Patrick Properties' speculative 104,000 sq ft industrial scheme in Glossop, on the border of Greater Manchester and the High Peaks, is paying off with six new occupiers announced.

Phase one of Graphite is now more than 60% occupied, achieving freehold levels in excess of £65/sq ft. Planning is due to be submitted for the second phase of the scheme later this year, which will comprise a further 250,000 sq ft of industrial space and will be available on either a freehold or leasehold basis.

So far in phase one, Automasters and packaging company, OML, have acquired 10,000 sq ft units each. WEC Leeds and Building Projects UK have both taken 3,700 sq ft units and Sumed is set to occupy a 7,800 sq ft building.

Cheshire-based developer-investor Patrick has also sold two acres to Lynton Trailers to build a storage facility.

Graphite is situated on Rossington Park in Glossop and accesses the M67. Andrew Dickman, of Patrick Properties, said: "Graphite has proven to be a successful development not only appealing to local occupiers but also attracting new companies to the area and, in turn, boosting the region's local economy. We have a further four units already under offer and are looking forward to the development of the next stage."

Gary Chapman of joint letting agents WHR Property Consultants added: "Previously, Glossop was not typically considered as an industrial/distribution destination; however, owing to Graphite's strategic location on the M67 corridor, its perception is changing. Occupiers who were previously looking at more expensive areas such as Tameside and Oldham, where there is a lack of decent stock, are now turning to Graphite and interest in the scheme continues to grow."

GVA Grimley are joint letting agents with WHR.