Hortons Gets Green Light for 175,000 Sq Ft Pre-Let Leicestershire Warehouse

Why It Matters

The long‑term TMHUK lease secures a stable tenant for Hortons, while the sustainable, high‑spec warehouse supports the expanding demand for advanced material‑handling logistics in the UK.

Key Takeaways

• Hortons secured planning for 175,000 sq ft warehouse in Leicestershire
• Toyota Material Handling UK signed 15‑year pre‑let lease
• Construction targets EPC A rating for sustainable operations
• Completion slated for March 2027, expanding TMHUK capacity

Pulse Analysis

The UK’s industrial real‑estate market has been buoyed by a surge in e‑commerce and supply‑chain reshoring, prompting developers like Hortons to accelerate high‑spec logistics projects. Situated between Leicester, Nottingham and Loughborough, the Old Dalby Business Park offers strategic connectivity to major motorways and rail links, making it an attractive hub for distribution and fleet management. Hortons’ decision to develop a 175,000 sq ft, EPC‑A‑rated facility reflects a broader industry shift toward energy‑efficient, future‑proof warehouses that can accommodate advanced automation and greener operations.

Toyota Material Handling UK’s 15‑year pre‑let underscores the growing need for dedicated fleet‑management centres capable of servicing over 12,000 trucks annually. By consolidating production, refurbishment, and storage under one roof, TMHUK can streamline workflows, reduce turnaround times, and enhance service quality for its customers. The commitment to an EPC ‘A’ rating aligns with Toyota’s sustainability goals, reducing carbon emissions and operational costs while providing a healthier work environment for staff.

For investors, the project signals confidence in the long‑term viability of UK logistics infrastructure. Hortons’ broader upgrade programme at Old Dalby, including plans for an additional 25,000 sq ft build‑to‑suit unit, suggests a pipeline of demand that could attract further high‑profile tenants. As manufacturers and distributors seek resilient, low‑carbon facilities, projects like this are likely to set a benchmark for future industrial developments across the region.