(Commonwealth) _ Glencar, an esteemed UK construction company celebrated among Europe’s fastest-growing businesses, joyfully heralds the successful culmination of the last phase: the construction of a vast 771,000 sq ft warehouse for Baytree Logistics Developments and Rhenus Warehousing Solutions UK. This significant milestone signifies the completion of the ‘Rhenus Campus,’ a sprawling 64-acre logistics hub situated in Nuneaton, West Midlands. Notably, this monumental achievement comprises the establishment of two substantial warehouses, boasting a combined expanse of 210,000 and 771,000 sq ft respectively. Crafted by the esteemed architectural firm Chetwoods, this project represents a paradigm shift in embracing environmental accountability within the logistics domain. Aligned meticulously with the UK Green Building Council’s Net Zero Carbon Buildings Framework, the project harbors a steadfast commitment to slashing carbon emissions significantly. At its core, this development champions sustainable practices and techniques, emphasizing a proactive approach towards environmental preservation.
A hallmark of this site lies in its integration of renewable energy solutions, prominently featuring on-site solar panels. These installations stand as a testament to the project’s unwavering dedication to sustainability, ensuring that the operational footprint remains environmentally conscious and renewable-centric. This forward-thinking incorporation of renewable energy sources cements the project’s stance as a trailblazer in forging a more eco-friendly and responsible approach within the logistics landscape. A noteworthy feature is the three-story 30,000 sq ft office headquarters built entirely from CLT and Glulam, showcasing innovative use of timber in a large-scale industrial setting a pioneering venture in the UK. Timber’s use is particularly impactful due to its significant embodied carbon savings and its ability to sequester carbon during its creation. For instance, the estimated 1,000 metric tons of sequestered carbon in the office’s timber frame is equivalent to powering a 20w lightbulb for over 21,000 years or circumnavigating the globe around 208 times.
Furthermore, the project transcends mere infrastructure development, embracing a holistic approach that prioritizes both employee welfare and environmental sustainability. Within its expansive scope, the development integrates an array of elements specifically designed to enhance employee well-being and foster eco-conscious practices. This includes the incorporation of sports pitches, allotments for cultivation, diverse plantations, purpose-built footpath networks for physical exercise, and outdoor spaces meticulously crafted to promote staff wellness and engagement. The commitment to environmental stewardship extends to the landscaping and biodiversity initiatives undertaken on-site. These efforts encompass the planting of native trees, the creation of log piles to support diverse wildlife habitats, and dedicated areas for fostering biodiversity, such as apiaries. Such endeavors are geared towards nurturing and preserving ecological diversity within the surrounding environment.
Internally, the project embraces cutting-edge technologies, harnessing the power of robotics, artificial intelligence (AI), and sophisticated warehouse management systems. These state-of-the-art, sustainable warehouses are strategically equipped to deliver adaptable and comprehensive warehousing and distribution services. With a keen focus on catering to global retail brands across various sectors including fashion, toys, fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG), household products, and health & beauty, these facilities are primed to meet diverse and dynamic industry demand while championing sustainability at every operational level. Glencar’s CEO, Eddie McGillycuddy, expressed immense pride in delivering this sustainable logistics campus, emphasizing its scale and technological innovations, and setting a new industry benchmark. Amit Babbar, Baytree Development Director, hailed the project’s achievements and commitment to advancing environmental and social aspects in logistics buildings. Additionally, Harry Wheelhouse, Business Development & Marketing Director at Rhenus Warehousing Solutions UK, highlighted the site’s ability to support business growth while fostering sustainability and aiding customers in carbon reduction endeavors.
