Wedoany.com Report-Feb 27, McLaren Construction has begun work on the MLM Crayford project, a development featuring three industrial buildings with premium office spaces. These structures range in size from 31,695 to 109,470 square feet, covering a total of 319,245 square feet. The site, located in Bexley Council’s Thames Road Industrial Area, spans 12 acres of previously unused brownfield land, vacant for approximately 15 years. A multi-storey car park will also be constructed to support the logistics facility.
The project site borders the Slade Green to Dartford railway line along its northeastern edge, requiring McLaren to apply its expertise in working near rail infrastructure. This is managed under a basic asset protection agreement with Network Rail. The development aims to achieve high sustainability standards, targeting a BREEAM Outstanding rating, an EPC A grade, and a carbon-neutral lifecycle. Features such as photovoltaic roof panels and LED lighting will contribute to these goals.
David Gavin, McLaren Construction’s managing director for industrial and logistics, stated: “There are some locations where warehouse construction might be straightforward, but not in an urban area, up against a railway line and with the ambition of achieving BREEAM Outstanding.” Angus Huntley, director at Stoford, the project’s developer, added: “MLM Crayford will regenerate a site that has been disused for more than a decade, delivering a logistics scheme in a supply constrained location that is market leading in its sustainability.”
Construction commenced with enabling works in December 2024, with the full 40-week program scheduled to conclude in the third quarter of 2025. Key subcontractors involved include RMC for ground works, ISC for earthworks, FH Dale for the steel frame, FK for cladding, and Ridgeway for curtain walling. The collaboration between McLaren Construction and Stoford builds on their prior projects, such as the Enfield headquarters for Metaswitch, the Stafford fulfilment center for Pets at Home, and the West Midlands Ambulance Service hub in Sandwell.
Situated in a supply-limited urban area, the MLM Crayford scheme seeks to transform the long-vacant site into a modern logistics hub. The design prioritizes energy efficiency and environmental performance, aligning with current industry standards. Completion of the project in 2025 will mark the revitalization of the Thames Road Industrial Area, providing functional industrial and office spaces supported by accessible parking facilities.
