Key Points
- VolkerFitzpatrick has been appointed to construct two logistics units totalling 310,000sq ft at Arrow Point, Horwich, Bolton.
- The project is being led by Arrow Capital Partners and Cerberus Capital Management as part of the €3bn Strategic Industrial Real Estate (SIRE) joint venture.
- Sustainability is central: rooftop solar panels and EV charging points will target BREEAM ‘Outstanding’ and EPC A ratings.
- The scheme will include 82 HGV trailer spaces, 32 dock levellers, and five-level access doors for improved logistics efficiency.
- Planning permission was secured in January 2025 from Bolton Council.
- VolkerFitzpatrick aims to complete construction in the first half of 2026, with work already underway following demolition and enabling works by Forshaw Demolition.
- The site offers a strategic location within the North West’s key distribution corridor, close to major motorways.
- PHP Architects are advising SIRE and B8 Real Estate are acting as the agent.
- Strong demand for logistics developments in the area reflects trends in UK supply chain infrastructure.
- Official statements stress the project’s sustainable approach, logistical innovation, and contribution to the Bolton economy.
A major new logistics development is set to transform Bolton’s industrial landscape, as VolkerFitzpatrick commences work on a cutting-edge 310,000sq ft scheme at Arrow Point, Horwich. The project marks a pivot towards sustainability and advanced infrastructure in one of the North West’s most strategically situated distribution hubs.
What Is the Scope of the 310,000 sq ft Development in Bolton?
As reported by Place North West, VolkerFitzpatrick has been commissioned to deliver two large logistics sheds—measuring 107,500sq ft and 202,250sq ft respectively—on Arrow Point, off Mansell Way in Horwich, Bolton.
The development is spearheaded by investor Arrow Capital Partners and Cerberus Capital Management, under their Strategic Industrial Real Estate (SIRE) joint venture, a €3bn platform targeting key industrial and logistics projects across Europe. With sustainability at its heart, the project incorporates leading-edge specifications, including:
- Rooftop solar panels.
- Multiple EV charging points across the premises.
- Advanced warehouse efficiency features such as 82 HGV trailer spaces, 32 dock levellers, and five-level access doors.
The aim is for the site to achieve the coveted BREEAM 'Outstanding' and EPC A ratings, signifying exemplary energy performance and environmental standards.
How Was Planning and Initiation of the Project Managed?
According to Place North West, Bolton Council granted detailed planning approval for the two-unit logistics scheme in January 2025. This rapid trajectory enabled immediate mobilisation of demolition and enabling operations by Forshaw Demolition, ensuring the project moved swiftly towards the construction phase.
PHP Architects have served as advisers to SIRE on the technical and design aspects, while B8 Real Estate is managing the leasing and marketing of the site.
Lawrence Harkness, Head of Development for Europe at Arrow Capital Partners, commented (Place North West):
“After securing planning at the start of the year, we immediately commenced demolition and enabling works with Forshaw Demolition, which have progressed exceptionally well. We’re now excited to move forward with VolkerFitzpatrick, an experienced logistics contractor whom we have worked with on previous developments, to bring the build phase to life. With occupier demand remaining robust, we’re targeting completion in the first half of 2026 and are looking forward to bringing this prime asset to market.”
Why Was VolkerFitzpatrick Chosen as Main Contractor?
Place North West notes that VolkerFitzpatrick, part of the wider VolkerWessels group, was selected due to their expertise in delivering large-scale sustainable and efficient logistics projects.
Andrew Stoney, Operations Director at VolkerFitzpatrick, stated in Place North West:
“This is a key development in one of the UK’s emerging strategic locations for logistics. With sustainability and connectivity at its core, this scheme is a perfect example of the kind of future-focused projects we’re passionate about delivering. We look forward to bringing our expertise to the project and working in close partnership with Arrow to create a high-quality, energy-efficient logistics hub.”
VolkerFitzpatrick’s track record on similar logistics projects, combined with the firm’s commitment to sustainable construction, underpinned the choice of contractor.
What Does the Project Mean for the North West Region?
As observed by Place North West and Construction Buzz, the site’s location maximises proximity to Manchester and Liverpool and offers easy access to the M60, M6, and M62 motorways—making it part of the region’s premier distribution corridor. This connectivity is especially significant given the continued growth in online retail, supply chain diversification, and a drive for resilience in the UK’s logistics infrastructure.
Logistical highlights of the facility will include:
- Two high-specification warehouses.
- Dedicated spaces and equipment to optimise goods handling and movement.
- Smart infrastructure to facilitate sustainable transport options for fleets and employees.
These features address the fast-growing demand from businesses for state-of-the-art, energy-efficient storage and distribution centres in the North West.
How Are Sustainability and Innovation Central to the Scheme?
Place North West highlights several innovative and sustainable elements at the heart of the design:
- Rooftop solar arrays: Essential for generating renewable energy on-site and reducing the facilities' carbon footprint.
- EV charging infrastructure: Catering to both logistics fleets and employee vehicles, supporting the region’s transition to cleaner transport.
- BREEAM ‘Outstanding’ and EPC A rating targets: Only the highest tier of construction achieves these designations, signifying world-class sustainability performance.
By embedding these features, Arrow Capital Partners and VolkerFitzpatrick are ensuring that the Bolton build will meet not just today’s regulatory expectations, but future-proof the asset against tightening environmental standards and occupier demand for green facilities.
What Are the Timelines for Completion and Letting?
As reported by Place North West, construction is already underway, following prompt completion of demolition and preliminary works. The partnership between SIRE and VolkerFitzpatrick plans to deliver both units in the first half of 2026, aiming to bring the site to market while demand for logistics floor space remains robust in the region.
The marketing of the units will be overseen by B8 Real Estate, targeting both national and international occupiers keen to establish or expand their presence in the North West corridor.
Who Else Is Involved in Making the Project a Reality?
According to Place North West, alongside VolkerFitzpatrick and Forshaw Demolition, several reputable partners are involved:
- Arrow Capital Partners and Cerberus Capital Management: The backing investors (SIRE joint venture).
- PHP Architects: Project design and technical adviser.
- B8 Real Estate: Leasing and agent representation.
- Bolton Council: Planning authority.
This collective has propelled the project from planning to delivery phase within a matter of months.
How Does This Project Fit Into Broader Regeneration Efforts in Bolton?
While the VolkerFitzpatrick build is one of the largest new logistics schemes in the area, it forms part of a broader drive to revitalise Bolton’s industrial and commercial landscape. As reported by Place North West, significant regeneration efforts are also ongoing in the town centre, including the redevelopment of older retail sites such as Crompton Place, with a focus on mixed-use schemes and modernised infrastructure for business and residential purposes.
The logistics hub at Arrow Point represents a substantial investment in Bolton’s future as a key node in regional and national supply chains, creating new opportunities for employment, business activity, and sustainable development.
What Has Been the Reaction to the Announcement?
Stakeholders point to both the commercial and environmental benefits of the scheme. As captured by Place North West, both Arrow Capital Partners and VolkerFitzpatrick express confidence in the strength of local demand, the enduring appeal of the site’s location, and the importance of delivering energy-efficient, high-quality spaces for the UK logistics market.
No substantial opposition has been reported, and the quick transition from planning to construction is seen as evidence of well-organised, collaborative project management.
VolkerFitzpatrick’s appointment to build this landmark 310,000sq ft logistics development marks a significant step forward for Bolton and the North West, reflecting wider trends towards sustainability, advanced infrastructure, and regeneration across the UK’s key industrial hubs.