IMA Architects has completed its latest project with Clowes Developments, with more projects confirmed for 2023.
Involved from the outset, IMA acted as Planning Consultants as well as Architects, helping to finetune the project and liaising with both Clowes Developments and NFUM throughout. The team produced footprint layouts of the proposed units to highlight achievable floorspace, as well as contributing to the full production of drawings and working closely with key contractors.
With practical completion achieved at the end of October, the six units are located across three sites in Corby (2), Castlewood (2) and at East Midlands Distribution Centre in Castle Donnington (2) – with a mix of B2 and B8 use – and will become part of NFUM’s property portfolio.
Five of the units were constructed on a speculative basis with no end users secured, while one unit – plot A1 in Corby occupying 162,490ft² – has been pre-let to Deichmann Shoes (UK). The first to be built, this unit was not initially part of the deal, but became part of the project during negotiations. The other five units occupy a combined floorspace of 838,586ft² and are now on the market for suitable occupants.
Speaking on the project, Ben Hall, director at IMA, said: “Our professional relationship with Clowes is longstanding and we have successfully delivered over 60 projects since 2009, with more confirmed on 2023. On this particular project, we were the only Architects on site and, as the demand for commercial rental units grow, so does the development potential – so we look forward to being part of future schemes.
“Going forwards, we look forward to working with Clowes on upcoming projects, and we are proud to have them as a returning client.”
James Richards, director at Clowes Developments, said: “We are pleased to have completed this project with NFUM and to have had the expertise of IMA on board from the outset. IMA form an important part of the puzzle which enables us to deliver such complex transactions.
“IMA worked seamlessly with our dedicated legal team at Geldards, employers’ agents, Postins Project Services, various contractors and, of course, our internal team at Clowes.
“Their ability to work well with key parties across all sites helped to ensure that the work was completed within the agreed timescales which is essential for us. We are confident that the units will all soon find suitable occupiers and be an asset to the local East Midlands economy for years to come.”
