Mercia Real Estate has submitted a planning application to redevelop the site off Hadley Castle Works, Hadley. The 115.1-acre site currently includes a mix of existing buildings, hardstanding areas, and undeveloped land within the Hadley Park East employment park. The proposed development involves constructing five industrial and commercial units, providing a gross external area of approximately 978,000 square feet, along with parking facilities for HGVs.

Diverse Business Opportunities and Job Creation

The new units are expected to accommodate a range of uses, consistent with the existing business park environment. Potential uses include manufacturing, distribution, light industrial activities, offices, and supporting facilities. The development is anticipated to create 1,850 full-time equivalent (FTE) jobs and generate an estimated £66.6 million in annual gross wages.

Sustainable and High-Quality Design Focus

A statement submitted to Telford and Wrekin Council on behalf of Mercia Real Estate highlights the sustainability of the project’s location, with good access to the national road network. The development will also incorporate facilities such as electric vehicle charging points, car share spaces, and cycle storage to encourage sustainable travel.

The statement further emphasised the commitment to high-quality design and environmental sustainability: "Both the developer and his consultant team are absolutely committed to providing buildings of the highest quality in terms of design, material selection, robust detailing, environmental credentials and inclusivity of access, which will be a sensitive solution that takes full account of the site's specific characteristics."

The design aims to create an integrated environment for tenants and visitors, featuring clean lines, functional detailing, and a contemporary appearance using a limited palette of neutral colours.

Council Decision Imminent

Telford and Wrekin Council's planning committee is set to review the proposals on 4 September. A report prepared for the committee suggests that the development is appropriate for the site, which is located within Telford's urban boundary and a strategic employment area. The report also indicates that all technical constraints have been adequately addressed.

It concludes: "The proposed scale, design and layout of the proposal is considered to be acceptable and would not have a significantly detrimental impact upon the streetscene. The public benefits of the scheme are considered to outweigh the harm caused to nearby heritage assets."

The committee members have been advised to approve the development plan.

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