We have recently commenced on-site work for the refurbishment and expansion of an existing warehouse located on a vacant industrial plot at Arlington Business Park in Theale, West Berkshire. This project, in partnership with our client Pulleyn Specialist Transportation – part of the CubeCold group – will lead to the creation of a cutting-edge, temperature-controlled warehouse. The development is being built on a flood plain, with Cell 4 constructed on stilts using an innovative structural solution developed in partnership with BE Design.

CubeCold offers specialist and temperature-controlled transportation services across the UK, Europe, and globally. Their expertise includes temperature-controlled transportation for sensitive pharmaceutical and medical goods, such as blood plasma, as well as fine art, valuables and chilled frozen goods.

The material palette has been thoughtfully chosen for both aesthetics and functionality. The development utilises cladding in similar green hues for both the new extensions and the re-cladding of the existing warehouse. These subtle colour variations are inspired by tree canopies with slight differences in green shades. Minimising joints in the cladding system ensures the most thermally and energy-efficient solution. This focus on sustainability has led to the creation of three distinct forms, breaking down the massing into simple blocks.

The main entrance has been designed to feature a prominent ‘corner’ that clearly defines the entrance to the ancillary office space. The feature cladding for the office space is also reflected in the pedestrian walkways.

Our landscape proposal aims to minimise the impact on the existing environment. Enhancements will be made to the western boundary and the landscape buffer to the south. A landscaping strip leading to the main entrance will create separation from the loading docks and ensure safe pedestrian segregation. We will introduce a variety of native species as part of our landscaping strategy. Where possible, we aim to improve and enhance the existing landscaping by introducing wildflower meadows, mixed native hedgerow planting, and ornamental shrub planting. New native planting within the site will provide increased habitat opportunities for local wildlife and boost biodiversity.

The development boasts state-of-the-art, high-efficiency Mechanical & Electrical (M&E) systems designed in collaboration with MBA Consultants. These systems incorporate photovoltaic (PV) panels strategically installed on the roof to significantly reduce the building’s energy consumption and carbon footprint. By harnessing solar power, the PV panels contribute to sustainable energy practices and cost savings.

Additionally, the design team has optimised the layout to maximise pallet positions, ensuring our client benefits from the most efficient storage solution possible. This thoughtful approach not only enhances storage capacity but also streamlines operations, ultimately driving productivity and reducing operational costs. The synergy between cutting-edge M&E systems and intelligent space utilisation exemplifies our commitment to delivering innovative and sustainable solutions tailored to our client’s needs.

We are working with Project Manager; Knight Webb and our programme is scheduled to last approximately 52 weeks. TanRo, the main contractor, are projecting that the development will be completed and handed over in early 2026.