Halfords opens at Bristol trade counter scheme

Halfords Autocentres has opened its trade counter unit at IM Properties’ new Longwell Green Gallagher Trade Park in Bristol.

The opening follows Barnwood Construction’s recent handover of the completed scheme located at Longwell Green Trade Park, which will generate more than 70 job opportunities once fully let.

IM Properties began speculatively building the development in March and Halfords Autocentres signed a pre-let agreement for the 4,000 sq ft unit the following month.

Simon Allen, Network Development Manager at Halfords Autocentres, said: “We are delighted to have taken possession of our unit on the Longwell Green Gallagher Trade Park scheme.

“The new site is ideally located to complement our existing Bristol centres in Filton, Bedminster, Newfoundland Street and Downend Road. The opening is part of our huge expansion plans aiming to open 30 new centres a year.”

Toolstation recently opened at another 4,000 sq ft unit and discussions are underway for the remaining five trade counter units. The space available ranges in size from 2,920 sq ft to 14,350 sq ft.

In addition, IM Properties has planning permission for an 18,000 sq ft self-storage unit at the prime trade park and talks are taking place with a number of operators.

Longwell Green Gallagher Trade Park is surrounded by some of the best known names in retail including Homebase, B&Q, Marks & Spencer, Next and Boots. It is located off the A4174 Avon Ring Road, providing access to Junction 1 of the M32 and Junction 19 of the M4 and is just five miles from Bristol City Centre.

Lewis Payne, Development Manager at IM Properties, said: “Halfords Autocentres is one of many household names attracted to our new trade counter scheme and we are pleased that new jobs are being generated for local people.”

Gordon Reynolds, of joint agents Cushman & Wakefield, added: “The Longwell Green Gallagher Trade Park scheme is located on one of the region’s premier trade parks and high levels of interest demonstrates there is a pent up demand for good quality trade counter premises in the right location.”

Each of the available units benefits from a double height glazed feature entrance, 7.2m minimum clear internal height, 37.5 kN/m2 floor loading, overhead sectional loading door and substantial signage panels.