Expansion plans revealed for Exeter business park

Developer St. Modwen and Devon County Council have secured a 15-year lease with Stovax Heating Group – trading as Stovax & Gazco – to occupy a new 18,200m² manufacturing unit at the Skypark development in Exeter.

Skypark – a partnership between St. Modwen and Devon County Council – is the cornerstone development of the Exeter and East Devon Growth Point initiative.

Stovax & Gazco is a leading manufacturer in the global stove and fireplace industry and delivers gas, electric, woodburning and solid fuel products.

The manufacturer has been in the industry for nearly 40 years and employs approximately 300 staff across Exeter.

James Irwin-Singer, Development Manager at St. Modwen Industrial & Logistics said: “The high-quality manufacturing unit will serve as a more enjoyable and environmentally sustainable place to work and we are planning to get construction underway in the second half of 2021 on what should be an exciting project for all involved.

“The development will also significantly benefit the local community, providing more jobs, more skills, and more training to the Exeter area.”

Alistair Compton, Managing Director at Stovax & Gazco added:

“Our business has ambitious plans to continue its strong history of growth and to build upon our position as a trusted brand in the premium heating and decorative fireplace market.

“Our new base at Skypark is a fantastic opportunity to achieve this, and crucially allow us to keep our operation in the heart of Exeter and to preserve employment for our longstanding, talented team of staff, whose hard work, expertise and innovative thinking are at the very core of the Stovax & Gazco brand ethos.

“We’re delighted to work in partnership with St. Modwen in meeting our high requirements for a premium, state-of-the-art, sustainable space to facilitate the expansion of our manufacturing and business operations under one roof.”