Growing Devon business park shortlisted for national award

Hitchcocks Business Park in Willand, Devon, has been shortlisted for a prestigious national award in recognition of its high quality, modern business accommodation and facilities.

Hitchcocks has been nominated in the commercial category and will be up against national landmark buildings, such as ScottishPower House in Glasgow, at the ceremony due to take place on 2 November in London.

The RICS (Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors Awards) recognises the most inspirational initiatives and developments in land, real estate, construction and infrastructure. Hitchcocks Business Park fought off strong competition from some of the South West’s best construction and property development businesses to win in the ‘Best Commercial Development’ category in the regional awards stage earlier this year.

The 25-acre business park is situated just off junction 27 of the M5 making it ideally suited for distribution or manufacturing businesses. International property consultancy JLL, which is the sole letting agent on the scheme, has played a pivotal role in creating the development, as well as advising on the next phase. One of three business parks in the South West owned by the same local landowner and developer, the facility has seen a highly successful year, letting more than 70,000 sq ft of warehouse accommodation which has provided valuable job opportunities for Mid Devon.

Owner Richard Persey of Maria Estates said: “I was honoured when Hitchcocks Business Park won the regional award for the RICS commercial category in May. To now be in with a chance of winning the overall category, alongside some strong nominees in the UK is a privilege. My vision has always been to create a pleasant environment that is appealing to everyone who works from and visits the Business Park. At Hitchcocks we develop bespoke accommodation for occupiers that are tailored to their unique requirements.

Tim Western, director at JLL in Exeter, added: “It’s fantastic that Hitchcocks Business Park is being recognised on a national stage. We hope that the judging panel also acknowledge the investment made in creating job opportunities.”