A significant construction milestone has been reached at Mountpark Ferrybridge, as GMI Construction Group begins erecting the structural steel frame of the first unit on the former Ferrybridge C Power Station coal yard.
The wider development, led by Mountpark, secured hybrid planning consent in 2024 and will deliver up to 1.64 million sq ft of B2 general industrial and B8 storage and distribution space. Once complete, the scheme could support between 2,000 and 2,500 jobs, representing a major boost for the regional economy.
The first unit to come forward is a 65,800 sq ft distribution facility pre-let to Warburtons on a 20-year lease, becoming its 18th UK distribution depot. Alongside this GMI will also deliver a second 40,000 sq ft Grade-A logistics unit.
Both units are targeting BREEAM ‘Outstanding’ certification and EPC A/A+ ratings, incorporating a range of sustainability measures including roof-mounted photovoltaic panels, air-source heat pumps, enhanced building fabric, intelligent LED lighting and electric vehicle charging infrastructure.
In addition to the buildings, GMI will deliver extensive enabling works to unlock the wider 110-acre site. This includes new highway junctions, estate roads, drainage and landscaping, as well as modifications to existing rail infrastructure to maintain connectivity for neighbouring industrial users.
Strategically located adjacent to the A1(M) and M62 and bordered by the River Aire, the site has been designated for employment use following the demolition of the former power station in 2022, creating a major opportunity for long-term regeneration and investment in the region.
Working alongside GMI as principal contractor, the wider consultant team includes Oxalis Planning, SMR Architects, Ridge and Partners, SK Environmental, BWB, Circle Sustainability, Lampos and Whitings.
Ed Weston, Regional Director (Yorkshire) at GMI Construction Group, said: “The erection of the steel frame is a highly visible sign of progress and a real milestone. Ferrybridge has long been synonymous with energy and industry. Seeing new structures take shape signals the start of a new chapter focused on advanced logistics, manufacturing and high-quality job creation. We’re proud to be working alongside Mountpark to bring forward this next phase in the site’s evolution.”
Brett Huxley, Development Director UK and Ireland at Mountpark, added: “Seeing real progress at this stage of construction is a key moment for the project. The strong momentum on site reflects continued demand for high-quality, sustainable logistics space in strategically located markets. With steel now in the ground, our vision is rapidly becoming a reality.”
