Heathrow Airport set for logistics expansion

Heathrow Airport has appointed McLaren Construction to build more than 9,000m² of logistics space as part of the redevelopment of its Eastern Business Park.

The project consists of four warehouse buildings, each split into eight individual units.

Aiming to achieve a BREEAM ‘Excellent’ rating, the scheme is one of 14 ‘spotlight projects’ exploring new approaches to using lower carbon materials.

Aside from footings and drainage, all of the elements will be manufactured offsite. The largest elements are the continuous roof panels which are 16m-long, including edge trims, gutters and solar array.

The steel frames will be preassembled in a factory, stripped down for transport and erected on site. The flat roof sections, (that will consist of cross-laminated timber panels) will be brought to site complete and to size.

McLaren Construction Managing Director for Industrial and Logistics David Gavin, said: “Heathrow’s status as a major hub creates opportunities in cargo handling and the many support services and businesses needed to meet the airport’s essential operational needs.

“These new Grade A warehouses represent a major transformation from the site’s post-war buildings. Their sustainable design highlights how far industrial development has moved on, and they now form an integral part of the airport’s infrastructure.”

Alistair Awcock, Infrastructure Director for Heathrow Airport added: “This infrastructure investment will provide prime logistics accommodation to our Heathrow partners, whilst modernising, strengthening and adding capacity to our perimeter property portfolio, supporting our customer strategy.”

The scheme is due to be complete by summer 2026.