The UK’s leading independent builders’ merchant has agreed a long-term lease on a prominent warehouse at one of Bedfordshire’s leading industrial estates, commercial property consultancy Kirkby Diamond – now part of Eddisons – announced today.
The deal at units 2-6 and 8B Bilton Way Industrial Estate, Luton, marks a significant addition to MKM Building Supplies’ growing UK network and underlines the continued appeal of the town’s established industrial and logistics market for trade occupiers.
MKM is the largest independent builders’ merchant in the UK, with over 135 branches across the UK. It provides materials and advice for trade and DIY projects.
An investment programme in excess of £1 million is now in planning to reconfigure and upgrade the 26,590 sq ft warehouse. The works will be overseen by Kirkby Diamond’s building consultancy team, following resolution of the dilapidations process with the former tenant.
Located just two miles from the M1 motorway, Bilton Way Industrial Estate comprises 49 units totalling 420,000 sq ft, and continues to attract strong occupier demand from logistics and trade businesses.
Kirkby Diamond’s team, led by senior partner and head of industrial and logistics Eamon Kennedy alongside Paul Quy, head of Milton Keynes agency, acted on behalf of landlord Brightbay Real Estate Partners.
Eamon Kennedy said: “We’re pleased to have secured such a well-respected national brand for Brightbay at Bilton Way. MKM’s commitment to a long-term lease and further investment in the site reflects the enduring strength of the industrial market in Luton and the quality of the estate.”
Mark Pepper, head of Kirkby Diamond’s building consultancy team, said: “The planned reconfiguration will deliver a high-quality, purpose-built facility that meets MKM’s operational needs and enhances the overall specification of the estate. Our team is working closely with both parties to ensure the project adds long-term value.”
Rob Stubbings, estates and acquisition manager at MKM Building Supplies, said: “Bilton Way gives us an excellent base to serve customers in Luton, across Bedfordshire and beyond. The planned improvements will ensure the building is perfectly configured for our operation and future growth.”
Eddisons has expanded in the South East by acquiring Kirkby Diamond, adding 62 staff across five offices and £6.2m turnover, strengthening its agency, property management and land development services while extending its footprint across the M1 corridor.
Kirkby Diamond continues to act as sole agent on the Bilton Way Industrial Estate, providing agency, lease advisory, and building consultancy services on behalf of BrightBay Real Estate.
The deal was concluded by Kirkby Diamond’s industrial and logistics team. With strategically located offices within the M25 and along the M1/A1 and M11 corridors, the team offers a unique blend of local expertise and regional reach. This combination allows them to provide tailored advice to institutional investors, landlords, developers, and occupiers, reinforcing our position as one of the region’s leading property consultancies.