The Woodbourne Group has embarked on an ambitious new project in the Black Country following the recent approval of its planning application. This development marks the company’s initial foray into the self-storage sector.
The Birmingham-based developer plans to repurpose a sizable industrial unit in Brierley Hill to create a state-of-the-art self-storage facility. This multimillion-pound investment aims to rejuvenate the area while providing modern storage solutions.
Revamping the Industrial Unit
The focal point of this new venture is a £9 million redevelopment project in Pedmore Road, Brierley Hill. The approved plans involve converting a 31,750 sq ft industrial building into a 50,000 sq ft self-storage facility. This transformation will not only enhance the area’s infrastructure but also create new employment opportunities.
To meet the needs of a contemporary self-storage unit, the development includes several upgrades. These encompass recladding and reroofing the building, as well as reconfiguring its entrances. Such enhancements are crucial for modernising the facility.
Strategic Location and Neighbourhood Impact
The site’s strategic location is one of its significant advantages. Situated near the Merry Hill shopping centre and various business estates, the location is poised to attract a steady stream of customers.
Nearby estates such as Sterling Park, Peartree Lane, and Narrowboat Way further add to the site’s appeal. These proximate business hubs are likely to generate demand for self-storage facilities, making this a well-considered move by Woodbourne Group.
Leadership Insights and Vision
Woodbourne Group’s Chief Executive Tani Dulay expressed satisfaction with securing planning permission. “We are pleased to have secured planning permission for a premium self-storage facility in Brierley Hill,” he said, marking the company’s entry into the self-storage sector.
Advisor Perspectives
Property agency Cushman & Wakefield has been advising Woodbourne Group on this project. The agency’s associate partner, Steffan Morgan, highlighted the strategic importance of this development. “The consented scheme provides an excellent opportunity to develop the property into a self-storage facility,” he noted.
Morgan further emphasised the high demand for conversion opportunities in prominent locations. Such projects are highly sought after in the undersupplied self-storage market, and they help meet the increasing need for storage solutions.
Adjacent Developments
Woodbourne Group is also behind the ambitious canalside Curzon Wharf scheme in Birmingham city centre. This vast mixed-use project near Aston University will feature student flats, apartments, a co-living block, offices, and a life sciences hub.
The Curzon Wharf development has already received consent, demonstrating Woodbourne Group’s capability in managing large-scale projects. The firm’s experience in delivering complex developments bodes well for its new self-storage initiative.
Economic and Employment Impact
The redevelopment of the Pedmore Road site is poised to bring significant economic benefits to the region. The creation of new jobs will be particularly impactful, offering employment opportunities across various levels and sectors.
In addition to job creation, the project is expected to stimulate local businesses. The influx of workers and customers will likely boost the economic activity in the surrounding area, contributing to broader regional growth.
The project’s positive economic impact underscores its importance beyond the immediate scope of self-storage. It represents a multifaceted benefit to the community and local economy.
Future Prospects and Expansion Plans
Woodbourne Group’s foray into the self-storage market is just the beginning. The company has plans to build a pipeline of self-storage facilities, aiming to address the rising demand for such services.
Future projects are expected to leverage the insights and experiences gained from the Brierley Hill development. This strategic approach will enable Woodbourne Group to refine its offerings and expand its footprint in the self-storage sector.
The Woodbourne Group’s entry into the self-storage market with the Brierley Hill project is a strategic move poised to yield significant benefits.
With its multimillion-pound redevelopment plan, the company is set to transform the industrial unit into a modern self-storage facility, fostering economic growth and job creation.
