Construction of Omega West Unit 4, a significant £28 million industrial and logistics (I&L) development within Warrington's Omega Business Park, is progressing as planned and is on course for completion in June 2025.

Led by McLaren Construction Midlands and North, Unit 4 follows the successful delivery of Units 2 and 3 at the site, which were also undertaken on behalf of Omega St Helens Limited, with funding managed by Blackstone.

Upon completion, the 420,000 sq ft facility will feature modern amenities, including two-storey office spaces, extensive warehouse capacity, a hub office, car parking, and comprehensive external works and landscaping.

Current works are focused on stage 3 commissioning of the intake substation on the plot. Offsite manufacturing and delivery of enhanced photovoltaic panels are also advancing, with installation scheduled to commence alongside the internal steel fibre reinforced concrete (SRC) slabs for the warehouse. Externally, the SRC yard slabs are expected to be largely finished by mid-to-late March, with the final finishes for the main office block fit-out due to begin late in March 2025.

The project team has successfully addressed site challenges, including the diversion of an existing watercourse along the southern and western boundaries, which necessitated an eight-metre buffer zone for safety. Careful planning also facilitated the diversion of a 132kVA cable below ground on the northern boundary, ensuring safe excavation and groundwork.

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Demonstrating a commitment to sustainability, the development will incorporate 10% natural roof light implementation and future capacity for electric vehicle (EV) charging. A full cut and fill balance of the existing ground is being utilised to reuse all suitable on-site materials. Furthermore, a wild meadow planting scheme and increased green spaces will be integrated into the landscaping. All generators and plant machinery have been powered by alternative fuels, and waste is managed using the Smartwaste online data system, with recycling targets monitored monthly.

The development is targeting a BREEAM rating of 'Excellent' and an EPC rating of A+. Throughout the project, locally sourced materials and suppliers have been prioritised to support the regional economy.

McLaren Construction Midlands and North has also maintained a strong focus on community engagement. The team has regularly connected with local schools and colleges, hosting job fairs and mock interview sessions to promote opportunities within the construction industry for young people. They participated in the Cowley College: Futures Fair and the Your Futures Careers Fair at De La Salle School, offering students insights into industry careers. Monthly meetings with the local council and planning teams, along with regular newsletters, have kept the community informed about the project's progress.

Gary Cramp, Managing Director of McLaren Construction Midlands and North, commented: "Pivotal works are progressing to schedule at Unit 4, and we are proud of our team for continuing to deliver a high-quality sustainable product, as part of the latest phase in our successful track record at Omega Business Park. We've been working closely with the community to regularly engage with local educational establishments and stakeholders, to ensure a seamless construction process with sustainability at the heart of the scheme."

David Milloy, Managing Director of M2 Group (owner of Omega St Helens), added: "We are very pleased to continue our partnership with McLaren Construction on this pivotal development. Their commitment to quality and community engagement aligns with our values and vision for Omega Business Park."

The ongoing progress of Omega West Unit 4 highlights McLaren Construction Midlands and North's dedication to delivering sustainable and innovative industrial and logistics infrastructure, while also fostering positive relationships with the local community.