Unanimous Planning Approval at Dove Valley Park

AEW have supported Clowes Developments in achieving unanimous consent for a planning application from South Derbyshire District Council for two units totalling 542,000 sq ft development on Plot 11, at Dove Valley Park in Foston, Derbyshire.

The approved scheme comprises two warehouse units totalling 542,000 sq ft (50,000 sq m). The development will provide 329 car parking spaces and 42 HGV docking bays and is expected to represent the final phase in the successful delivery of Dove Valley Park.

Members of the planning committee were advised that the scheme is anticipated to create as many as 700 full-time jobs, delivering a significant employment boost for the South Derbyshire area. The development is being brought forward for an as-yet unnamed occupier, marking another substantial inward investment into one of the region’s most established industrial and distribution locations.

During the planning meeting, councillors expressed support for the proposals. One member described the scheme as “absolutely brilliant”.

A revised proposal for the site’s Innovation Centre was also approved. Designed as a central hub for businesses across Dove Valley Park and the wider area, the facility will provide flexible meeting and collaboration space, informal breakout areas and access to landscaped external amenity space. Plans also include a café/restaurant to support employees and visitors.

The Innovation Centre will be operated by Dove Valley Park Management Company and received letters of support from The University of Derby and Burton and South Derbyshire College.

Marc Freeman, Director at Clowes Developments, addressed the committee:

“This is an exciting opportunity for South Derbyshire to secure much-needed jobs. This development complements existing businesses and will deliver significant long-term benefits to the area.”

Councillor Amy Wheelton welcomed the approval, stating:

“This is setting the bar high for this type of application. It is absolutely brilliant. I am most excited about the Innovation Centre. This is huge for South Derbyshire.”

Dave Somers, Associate Director at AEW Architects added,

“With a potential occupier in mind, we’ve refined the previously consented scheme at Dove Valley Park to meet their specific operational needs while retaining the character and principles already established. We’ve evolved a high-quality, sustainable proposal targeting BREEAM Excellent that will support continued growth at this established industrial location and deliver economic benefits locally and nationally.”

Dove Valley Park, Foston, strategically located just off the A50 between Derby and Uttoxeter, has experienced significant growth in recent years. To date, just under one million sq ft of commercial space has been developed and either sold or let to a range of local and national owners and occupiers, including Hines, MEG, GXO, TopHat and JCB.