Construction begins on Cheadle Eco Park, setting new sustainability and digital construction benchmarks nationwide.
Work has commenced on Cheadle Eco Park, a £25m green light-industrial development in Cheadle, Stockport, that positions itself among the UK’s most environmentally advanced industrial schemes. Located on Bird Hall Lane, the project will deliver 115,000 sq ft of flexible, multi-unit industrial space designed to support modern, sustainability-driven businesses.
The scheme comprises six units ranging from 8,374 sq ft to 43,800 sq ft. Each unit is engineered to meet evolving occupier requirements, particularly for businesses prioritising energy efficiency, operational performance, and low-carbon infrastructure. The development is expected to generate up to 200 jobs, reinforcing its role in regional economic growth.
Achieving BREEAM outstanding through whole-life carbon design
Cheadle Eco Park has been designed to achieve BREEAM Outstanding certification, the highest rating under the Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method. Only developments scoring above 85% meet this threshold, placing the scheme within the top 1% of UK non-residential buildings for sustainability.
This is particularly significant within the light-industrial sector, where achieving BREEAM Outstanding remains uncommon due to operational and structural constraints. The project’s sustainability strategy is underpinned by whole-life carbon assessment methodologies, integrated from early-stage design.
By embedding whole-life carbon modelling into the digital design process, the development team has been able to evaluate embodied and operational carbon impacts in real time. This approach aligns with the UK Net Zero Carbon Buildings Standard and supports Stockport Council’s target of achieving carbon neutrality by 2038.
Digital Construction and low-embodied carbon materials
A defining feature of the scheme is its structural approach. Designed by AEW Architects, Cheadle Eco Park will become the UK’s largest purpose-built industrial and logistics development constructed entirely from sustainably sourced timber at this scale.
The use of structural timber significantly reduces embodied carbon when compared to traditional steel-frame construction. Digital construction methodologies, including Building Information Modelling (BIM) and parametric design tools, have enabled precise material optimisation and reduced waste across the construction lifecycle.
This data-driven approach supports accurate carbon forecasting, efficient procurement strategies, and improved on-site delivery. It also enhances collaboration between stakeholders, ensuring sustainability targets are met without compromising performance or cost certainty.
Smart energy systems and green infrastructure integration
The development incorporates advanced building systems designed to optimise operational efficiency and minimise environmental impact. Key features include air-source heat pumps, natural ventilation strategies, and intelligent lighting systems, all contributing to a targeted EPC A rating.
In parallel, the seven-acre site is undergoing significant environmental enhancement. Biodiverse landscaping, new tree planting, swales, and a rain garden for sustainable drainage are integral to the masterplan. Electric vehicle charging infrastructure will be installed across all parking spaces, supporting the transition to low-emission transport.
Active travel connectivity has also been prioritised, improving access for pedestrians and cyclists and aligning with wider urban mobility strategies.
Supporting clean growth and local economic development
Cheadle Eco Park is designed to accommodate low-impact industrial activities, making it suitable for businesses operating without significant noise or pollution. The flexible unit configuration supports a range of occupiers, from advanced manufacturing to logistics and technology-led enterprises.
By providing high-quality, sustainable industrial space, the scheme aims to retain local talent and attract inward investment. The presence of new businesses is expected to stimulate the local supply chain, benefiting service providers and increasing demand across the regional economy.
The project is supported by a £4.4m grant from the Government’s Town Fund and forms a central component of the Town Investment Plan. Network Space Developments is acting as development manager on behalf of Stockport Council, with Caddick Construction Limited appointed as main contractor. CBRE and B8 Real Estate are joint letting agents.
Industry perspectives on a low-carbon industrial future
Cllr Micheala Meikle, Cabinet Member for regeneration, economy and skills at Stockport Council, said: “The start on site marks a major milestone in delivering this ground-breaking, environmentally exemplary development. Cheadle Eco Park is a key part of our ambition to create a modern, sustainable employment zone that brings real benefits to our communities.
“This scheme will create up to 200 new jobs, providing a huge boost to the local economy, while setting a new standard for sustainable industrial space and leading the way for the region.”
David Saville, North West Managing Director at Caddick Construction Limited, said: “Breaking ground at Cheadle Eco Park marks a hugely important moment not just for Stockport, but for the future of sustainable industrial development across the region. As the main contractor, we’re proud to be bringing forward what will be one of the UK’s greenest industrial parks, built to exceptional environmental standards and designed to support the next generation of low-carbon businesses.
“We’re pleased to be working alongside Stockport Council and Network Space Developments to create a high-quality, future-proofed employment space that will generate jobs, strengthen the local supply chain and leave a lasting positive legacy for the borough.”
Stephen Barnes, Managing Director at Network Space Developments, said: “We’re delighted to now be on site delivering such an environmentally leading, multi-let industrial and logistics scheme for Stockport Council.
“The development is in many ways unique through its use of structural timber frames and low carbon technologies to target the very highest possible BREEAM sustainability rating. The scheme will also provide much-needed multi-let industrial and logistics space in a prime location, and we hope to attract occupiers who can benefit from the project’s sustainability credentials.
“We’ve appointed a first-class North West-based delivery team which will further boost the local economy and supply chain, as well as raise the benchmark for sustainable development in the region.”
Brian Bradley, Chair of the Cheadle Towns Fund Board, added: “Work starting on Cheadle Eco Park marks a major step forward in delivering one of the UK’s most advanced and environmentally ambitious light-industrial developments. This scheme represents a significant investment in Cheadle’s economic future, bringing high-quality jobs, supporting clean-growth industries and creating a modern, sustainable employment destination that will benefit the town for many years to come. The Board is proud to see this transformative project move into delivery.”
Cheadle Eco Park demonstrates how digital construction, low-carbon materials, and data-driven design can deliver scalable, sustainable industrial developments while supporting economic growth, net zero targets, and long-term regional resilience.
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