- Epping Forest District Council has approved £8.8 million in funding for the demolition and redevelopment of three industrial units on Cartersfield Road within the Brooker Road Industrial Estate, with work set to begin next month.
- Qualis Commercial will start demolition next month and has submitted a planning application to redevelop the site, adding eight new industrial units.
- The regeneration project is expected to attract new commercial enterprises to the area and builds on the success of Qualis’ recently completed Waltham Connect.
- A sustainability-first approach to design and construction aims to deliver a carbon-neutral scheme.
Following the successful completion of four high-specification industrial units at Waltham Connect last year, Qualis Commercial continues to lead the regeneration of the Brooker Road Industrial Estate. The most recent funding approval from Epping Forest District Council (EFDC) will allow for the demolition and redevelopment of a second site within the estate.
EFDC has allocated £8.8 million for the demolition of three existing units on Cartersfield Road. Subject to planning approval, the new development will feature eight modern units, offering 29,000sqft of high-quality space, suitable for a range of light industrial activities.
The opportunity
In July 2024, EFDC appointed Qualis Commercial to develop proposals for the council-owned site at 180/181 Cartersfield Road. The site benefits from exceptional transport links, situated just minutes from Junction 26 of the M25 and three miles from the A10. This location offers an outstanding regeneration opportunity that will attract new enterprises, create jobs and boost the local economy.
The existing industrial units are nearly 100 years old, in poor condition, and not suitable for modern use. Refurbishing these units would be cost-prohibitive and only marginally extend their lifespan, without addressing the significant layout challenges that make them difficult to let.
Qualis Commercial’s proposal includes the construction of eight new commercial warehouse units, designed to accommodate B2 (General Industrial) and B8 (Storage and Distribution) uses. If approved, the new units will feature carbon-neutral designs, achieving an A+ energy efficiency rating, BREEAM ‘Excellent’ sustainability certification and will meet Secure by Design commercial safety standards.
Long-term investment
Experience from nearby Cartersfield Road has demonstrated strong demand for this type of development, thanks to its excellent transport links and accessibility. This second phase of development aims to build on that success, attract new commercial enterprises and create additional jobs in the region.
The new units will remain a council-owned asset, generating additional revenue for EFDC once occupied.
Timeline
Demolition of the existing units is scheduled to begin in March 2025. Construction of the new units is contingent upon the approval of the planning application.
“This is a long-term regeneration initiative, designed to attract new businesses, create employment opportunities and provide a sustainable return for the council,” said Jennifer Currier, Head of Development at Qualis Commercial.
“We look forward to progressing this scheme in collaboration with the council once planning approval is received.”
