Markham Vale Distribution Hub – Extensive M&E Solutions for a Strategic Industrial Development

Client:
Markham Vale Distribution Hub
Main contractor:
Multiple
Value:
£14 Million

Heb Mechanical & Electrical was a key partner in the large-scale development of the Markham Vale Distribution Hub, providing a full suite of Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing (MEP) services. The project, spanning five years, included the construction of several industrial units to meet the growing demand for distribution and logistics facilities. With unit sizes ranging from 3,000 sq. ft. to over 750,000 sq. ft., Heb's contribution was pivotal in supporting the functionality, sustainability, and future expansion of the site.

Project Overview

Markham Vale is a strategically located industrial and logistics park, offering quick access to the M1 motorway. The site was designed to cater to a wide variety of industries, making it essential that the mechanical and electrical installations be adaptable to the differing requirements of tenants. Heb Mechanical & Electrical provided bespoke MEP solutions across all phases of development, ensuring the infrastructure could support the needs of both speculative units and pre-let tenants.

The development featured some of the UK’s leading industrial and distribution clients, including Inspirepac, Ready Egg, Holdsworth Foods, Bilstein, Sterigenics, and Grangers International. Heb’s role included the installation of advanced MEP systems for warehouses, offices, and production spaces, facilitating seamless operations across the site.

Key Installations and Solutions

  • Base Build MEP Installations: Heb delivered comprehensive MEP systems for both the speculative and custom-built units. These installations were designed to provide future-proofed infrastructure capable of supporting a wide range of operational needs. The mechanical installations included high-efficiency heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems, while the electrical works encompassed power distribution, lighting, and fire safety systems.

  • High-Voltage (HV) Infrastructure: Given the scale of the site and the energy demands of the tenants, Heb designed and installed a dedicated high-voltage (HV) electrical infrastructure. This bespoke HV system ensured that each unit had access to a robust and reliable power supply capable of meeting intensive operational demands.

  • External Services & Sustainable Features: The external scope of works included the installation of high-efficiency lighting systems for the industrial park, as well as electric vehicle (EV) charging stations. These installations were designed with sustainability in mind, supporting the long-term environmental goals of the development.

  • Bespoke Warehouse & Production Fit-Outs: Beyond the base build, Heb provided tailored fit-outs for specific tenants. This included the installation of precision lighting, power distribution, environmental controls, and safety systems in warehouse and production areas. Heb’s ability to deliver systems suited to high-intensity production lines and temperature-sensitive storage was a key factor in meeting client requirements.

Challenges and Solutions

Coordination Across Multiple Units and Clients: The size and complexity of the Markham Vale project required close coordination with a variety of stakeholders. Heb Mechanical & Electrical worked closely with Bowmer and Kirkland, Henry Boot Construction, and the individual tenants to ensure that the specific MEP requirements of each unit were met. Detailed project management ensured the seamless integration of mechanical and electrical systems without impacting overall construction timelines.

Tailoring Solutions to Client Needs: Each client had different operational demands, from food processing to high-tech manufacturing. Heb’s experience across a wide range of sectors enabled them to design MEP systems that met these diverse requirements. For example, food distribution clients like Ready Egg required advanced HVAC and environmental controls to maintain specific conditions for their products, while industrial manufacturers such as Bilstein needed robust power systems for heavy machinery.

Minimising Environmental Impact: Throughout the project, Heb prioritised the use of energy-efficient and sustainable technologies. The installation of LED lighting, EV charging points, and energy-efficient HVAC systems helped to reduce the overall carbon footprint of the development, aligning with the client’s sustainability goals.

Key Achievements

  • Seamless Delivery Across Phases: Over the course of the five-year project, Heb Mechanical & Electrical successfully delivered multiple phases of MEP work, meeting all deadlines and budget requirements. This consistency helped ensure that tenants could move in and begin operations as scheduled.

  • Adaptability: Heb’s ability to adapt their installations to meet the specific needs of different tenants was a key factor in the project’s success. From bespoke fit-outs for complex production environments to large-scale warehouse facilities, Heb ensured that every unit was fully operational and compliant with industry standards.

  • Long-Term Client Partnerships: The high-quality delivery of MEP services led to several additional direct contracts with tenants such as Holdsworth Foods and Sterigenics, further demonstrating Heb’s reputation for reliability, technical expertise, and client satisfaction.

Outcome

The Markham Vale Distribution Hub is now a thriving logistics and distribution centre, home to a variety of industries. The advanced MEP installations provided by Heb Mechanical & Electrical have supported the long-term operational success of the tenants, contributing to the development's reputation as a premier industrial hub. The bespoke, future-proofed systems installed by Heb ensure that the site can meet current demands while remaining adaptable to future growth.