13th October 2020

Somerset companies plan expansion at Peninsula 23

Agency & Commercial Development

Planning applications have been submitted to Somerset County Council for two new headquarter/manufacturing buildings on Peninsula 23, Roselea Properties’ successful mixed use scheme in Bridgwater.

The first application is for two buildings totalling 50,000 sq ft for Monmouth Scientific and the second for a 27,000 sq ft building for Somerset Willow.

Monmouth Scientific, which specialises in creating clean rooms and laboratory equipment for use in medical, food and research environments, had been in discussions with Roselea’s agent Alder King, earlier this year to lease a new 40,000 sq ft building on the business park.

The transaction was paused as a result of the lockdown but, following a very successful trading period during the lockdown, the deal was resumed and the requirement amended to provide an additional but separate 10,000 sq ft building.

If approved, the new facility will provide the 65-strong company with a combination of office, warehouse, manufacturing and assembly space as well as a dedicated product demonstration laboratory.

Somerset Willow, a four generation family firm renowned for its handcrafted picnic hampers, willow baskets and furniture, has been based in Bridgwater for many years.  The latest family management has now agreed a freehold design and build scheme for a new headquarters and manufacturing base at Peninsula 23 which, if approved, would give the business a larger, modern facility with room to grow and easier access to the motorway.

Anthony Hill, managing director of Somerset Willow, commented: “Securing modern premises is an important part of our growth strategy and would enable us to develop new product ranges and expand our client base.  We have worked closely with Roselea Properties and Alder King in preparing our application and are hopeful of a successful outcome next year.”

Andrew Maynard, partner at Alder King in Taunton, said: “Demand for both leasehold and freehold production space remains robust and while the lockdown may have delayed the process, both Monmouth and Somerset Willow are now keen to progress with their expansion plans to capitalise on demand for their products.

“If both schemes get the go-ahead, work could get underway in early in 2021.”

Peninsula 23, which sits opposite Woodlands Business Park off the M5, provides plots from 1- acres capable of accommodating buildings ranging from 10,000 to 150,000 sq ft.  More information on opportunities on the park is available from www.alderking.com