ST MODWEN PLANS MERSEYSIDE BUSINESS VILLAGE

St Modwen Properties PLC, the regeneration specialists, has signed a building lease with Knowsley Council to develop a 12-acre site at Prescot, Merseyside, which the council has reclaimed and serviced, in three phases including the creation of a business village.

The first phase of the scheme, to be known as Prescot Business Park, will comprise the development of some 4,552 sq m ( 49,000 sq ft ) of managed flexible workspace together with a 5,016 sq m ( 54,000 sq ft) business village comprising a courtyard of 139 sq m (1,500 sq ft ) offices each with their own front door, and a further courtyard of larger offices of 557 sq m ( 6,000 sq ft), which can be divided into separate suites of 139 sq m (1,500 sq ft). Phases two and three will comprise a mixture of light industrial and office buildings designed to capitalise on the attractive environment. A planning application will be submitted this month and it is hoped that a start can be made by May.

The site is close to Prescot town centre and opposite Cables Retail Park. The site has been reclaimed and landscaped by Knowsley Council and a spine road (Cables Way) has been constructed.

Chris Newsome of St Modwen, said: “This is a very exciting project which will provide Prescot with high quality centrally located business accommodation in an attractive setting close to amenities and with easy access to the M57.”

Cllr Ron Round, Leader of Knowsley Council, said: “We are delighted that this area is being developed which will contribute to the economic well being of the borough as well as providing additional employment opportunities in Knowsley. St Modwen have a strong reputation as regeneration specialists and for working in partnership with other agencies.”

The Liverpool office of CB Richard Ellis is acting for St Modwen.

For further information contact Chris Newsome of St Modwen (01925 825950).

Issued by Paul Raymer of Howle Chapman Raymer (0121 236 7771).