With online retail and Brexit uncertainty driving record demand for UK warehousing space, clear span tensile structures can provide an effective solution to the shortage of space.
That’s according to specialist warehouse contractor Collinson Construction, which has seen a huge increase in enquiries for tensile warehouses during 2020.
Through its partnership with Best-Hall, a world leader in tensile building technology, Collinson can provide clear span tensile warehouses up to 100 metres wide, and any length.
Meeting growing demand
John Lomas, who heads up Collinson’s industrial buildings division, comments: “The take-up of warehouse space has hit a record high in 2020 as the pandemic restrictions have created a boon for online retail. “A trend towards holding higher stock levels because of the uncertainty over the UK’s future trading relationship with the EU has also created more demand for warehouse space.
“With importers, freight forwarders and retailers needing that space quickly, we have seen a big influx in enquiries over the last 12-months for tensile warehouses.”
As well as being able to run up to 100 metres with no internal supports, Best-Hall’s tensile fabric structures can be built cost-effectively and quickly when compared to more traditional warehouse buildings.
Tried and tested technology
Solid steel bracing is used throughout, so there’s no need to re-tension the structure or fabric during the lifetime of the building. The powder-coated steel work also provides superior protection against corrosion.
The architectural fabric membrane has a design life of around 35 years. When required, a new cover can be installed over the existing steel structure.
Another added benefit to the technology is that the translucent membrane roof lets natural daylight pass through for a more pleasant working environment. Electricity usage for lighting therefore significantly reduced.
“Businesses are becoming ever more comfortable with modern methods of construction and tensile structures offer that fast, flexible and reliable solution,” adds John. “Best-Hall warehouses have been tried and tested around the world and can withstand even the harshest of conditions. Whether in ports and harbours, or as part of industrial estates and logistics hubs, we can provide warehouses that will help customers meet growing demand for space.”
Recent figures from BNP Paribas Real Estate revealed that 13.5 million square feet of UK ‘big-box’ space was signed for in the three months to September 30, 2020 – an increase of 73% on the same period in 2019.
Meanwhile, real estate advisor Knight Frank estimates that a further 92 million square feet of warehouse space will be needed across the UK by 2024.
For more information on using tensile buildings for the warehouse and logistics sector, call John Lomas, sales manager for Best-Hall UK and Collinson Construction on 01995 607495.
Collinson Construction specialises in both modern and traditional methods of construction to create high-performing buildings for the sports and leisure, industrial, education and commercial sectors. It was formed in 2004 and is based at Catterall in Lancashire. It employs 35 staff and undertakes projects across the UK.
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