Thousands of BMW cars destined for UK buyers are making their seamless way to market thanks to a tripartite design and build project involving HBPW, Clugston’s and a leading automotive specialist.
Durham-based architects Howarth Litchfield, renowned for its experience in the automotive, commercial and industrial sectors, was asked by ABLE Group to be the principle designer of its new £25m import centre and Pre-Delivery Inspection (PDI) unit for BMW at North Killingholme.
Clugston and HBPW were also invited to the table as part of the contract and, a year on, following a highly successful collaboration, the 6,000m sq facility is now fully operational.
It is being used for the preparation of BMW cars ahead of collection by customers, transporters and retailers, and the facility has created some 100 new jobs.
HBPW Partner, Emyr Parry, said: “The PDI until is being used by BMW UK Ltd to prepare, clean and inspect several thousand imported vehicles a year ahead of onward transportation to UK retailers.”
HBPW was responsible for the civil and structural design associated with the building which included a 175m long workshop, car washing facilities, underground drainage and ground and first floor offices.”
Neil Etherington, Business Development Director at Able Group, said: “Able Humber Port, by any measure, is a major development of strategic significance. It has been earmarked by government as a key location for the marine renewable energy sector and is the biggest part of the UK’s largest Enterprise Zone. The contract with BMW is an important element in continuing progress and we are delighted to be working with such a strong and committed team of professionals.”
The building, which features a slab foundation, portal frame steel structure and external cladding, also embodies a new ground floor reception and mezzanine offices and support accommodation.
“This was a substantial project involving three key suppliers. However, I am pleased to say that whilst there were the usual challenges associated with a scheme of this nature, this has proved to be an excellent example of collaborative working with a strong outcome for all parties,” added Emyr.