Panattoni Secures Major Name For Sittingbourne

A developer’s confidence in Kent has seen it secure a big name to take a major part of its new logistics site in Sittingbourne, bringing with it hundreds of new jobs.

Panattoni, the largest logistics developer in the UK and Europe, has attracted leading parcel delivery company DPD to take a bespoke, built-to-suit facility at Panattoni Park Sittingbourne.

DPD has agreed to pre-let the entire Phase 2 of the development, which will see it move into a 58,000 sq ft high-quality logistics and distribution building.

Alex Mitchell, Development Manager at Panattoni, said: “Securing DPD is a significant milestone for Panattoni at Sittingbourne, and demonstrates the strong demand that exists for high-quality, sustainable industrial space in the South East.

“We are confident Swale Borough Council shares our vision to deliver high-quality industrial space to support and sustain the local economy.

“A planning application has been submitted and we are confident that we could begin construction later this year and deliver a state-of-the-art facility that meets DPD’s operational needs, while also aligning with our sustainability goals.”

If approved by the local council, the new DPD facility could be ready for occupation by Autumn 2025. It will be constructed to the highest environmental standards, targeting a BREEAM ‘Excellent’ rating, in line with Panattoni’s dedication to sustainability.

Tony Watkins, Panattoni’s Head of Development, South East & London, said: “Our development at Sittingbourne is poised to become a key logistics hub in the region, benefiting from excellent transport links and proximity to major urban centres.

“Across the South East, and the UK, we are delivering what the best companies are demanding, and that is high performing, high quality logistics and distribution space in the best locations.”

Construction on the speculative development of Phase 1 of the Sittingbourne site is progressing well on two units, comprising 439,228 sq ft and 205,320 sq ft logistics facilities. While there is already significant interest in these units, both remain available for tenants. They are scheduled for completion and occupation by March 2025.