30 Acres of Magic for Merlin in Trafford Park July 26, 2004 One of the region’s most important strategic distribution sites has received a new injection in Trafford Park’s deal of the year. Bought by Merlin, a joint venture company of Beva Investments and Quorum Estates the 30 acre former Fermec site which fronts Barton Dock Road, Trafford Park has been acquired for an undisclosed sum of circa £10 million. The site is close to Junction 9 of the M60 and ¼ mile from the Trafford Centre. It was formerly used for the construction of the Merlin engine used in the Lancaster Bomber. Housing a 400,000 sq ft distribution unit Merlin plan a substantial refurbishment which will start on-site in September 2004 with completion targeted for the beginning of 2005. The £7 million refurbishment will see the creation of a significant distribution depot which will offer accommodation from 100,000 sq ft to 400,000 sq ft. Future industrial and office development is proposed on the site and Merlin will announce details in due course. CRBE advised Fermec on the sale and Davies Harrison advised Merlin. Commenting on the deal Fred Chadwick of Merlin said “This project cements a 15 year relationship between Beva and Quorum and both companies are delighted that we have acquired the site. We have exciting plans for the scheme which has great regional/national importance in terms of distribution.” Back