Exeter contractor marks topping out milestone on major South West business park development

Exeter-based Devon Contractors has celebrated the completion of the outer frame and roof of the first phase of a major industrial development at Westpark 26 Business Park in Wellington.

The topping out ceremony, held alongside development partner Summerfield, marks an important milestone in the construction of 16 high-quality industrial units that will support business growth and employment in the South West.

The units form half of the planned development of 16 high quality, energy efficient and flexible spaces on the park which is home to a range of distribution, warehousing and manufacturing businesses. Construction of the remaining eight units is progressing well with the structural framework nearing completion.

Designed with sustainability in mind each unit will feature 15 solar panels, glazed entrance canopies, EV charging points and covered cycle storage. Flexible internal layouts range from 163 to 227 sq. m. with options for mezzanine floors and office space. The units will benefit from a 6.5 metre eave height and wide insulated electric loading doors.

Construction has required 188 tonnes of steel, 5,471 sq. m of cladding and 352 gabion baskets containing 449 sq. m of stone for retaining walls. Landscaping will incorporate mature hedges and tree lines, alongside bird, bat and dormouse boxes. External lighting has been carefully designed to have minimal environmental impact.

Driving in the last screw on the roof to mark the structural completion of the building's frame, Summerfield Group MD James Holyday said: “We are delighted with the progress being made. These units will provide an excellent addition to this popular business park.”

Managing director of Devon Contractors who are celebrating their 80th year in construction, Nigel Whelan, said: “It was a pleasure to join Summerfield Developments to celebrate this important milestone at Plot 19.

“Our two businesses share a long and successful history in the South West and projects like this demonstrate the value of strong partnerships built on trust, quality and a shared commitment to supporting local economic growth. We look forward to completing the development and seeing these new units provide opportunities for businesses in Wellington for years to come."  

Anyone interested in the development should contact Alder King, JLL or visit https://www.summerfield.co.uk/commercial-type/current-developments/