Work set to start on world’s largest BREEAM ‘Outstanding’ building

Developer Prologis has appointed Winvic Construction to deliver a new national distribution centre for Marks & Spencer (M&S) at Daventry International Rail Freight Terminal (DIRFT). 

Covering 120,773m², the scheme is expected to be the largest in the world to achieve BREEAM ‘Outstanding’ certification while also targeting an EPC A+ rating.  

The project represents a £340 million investment in M&S’s food supply chain and forms a key part of the company’s strategy to double the size of its food business. The development will combine temperature-controlled storage, advanced automated fulfilment, returns and recycling operations, and dedicated office space. 

Over the 52-week build programme, Winvic will construct two low-carbon single-storey warehouses, which include multi-storey office accommodation, a security hub linked via a pedestrian bridge and a vehicle maintenance unit.

Sustainable features include a large-scale rooftop photovoltaic array, EV charging, energy-saving technologies that will further reduce annual operational emissions and extensive use of recycled materials. 

Paul Weston, Regional Head at Prologis UK, said: “Prologis is pleased to have appointed Winvic as its construction partner to deliver this complex, large-scale logistics project designed to meet the highest environmental standards. 

“This development enables a future-fit supply chain for M&S and brings lasting economic value to the Midlands, through skilled jobs, resilient infrastructure and investment in one of the UK’s most important logistics locations.”