The two-unit distribution centre at Sittingbourne in Kent, is one of the largest of its type in the UK, offering 85,000m2 of storage and warehousing, and was also built by VolkerFitzpatrick. Sustainability was a key feature of the design and build.

The fit-out work, which commences next week, will last until September, and includes the installation of a pallet racking system, putting in of electrical, data fire and security systems, creation of the refrigerated storage area, offices, changing and amenities blocks, a staff and driver canteen, a ‘Goods In' and drivers office, and all external works.

VolkerFitzpatrick's Divisional Director Dave Saunders said "This distribution centre is central to Morrisons' expansion in the South-East, and is one of the largest centres of its type in the UK. It is gratifying that having built the two units, we were chosen to complete the fit-out work - especially as the construction of the units saw a high degree of collaboration between our civils and building divisions".

"Sustainability is a key feature of this development. Water usage has been reduced by 45% through rainwater harvesting, and solar heated hot water saves 2,850 kgs of CO2 annually, and over 560,000 kgs of CO2 is saved through high-frequency and energy efficient lighting" said Mr. Saunders.

The units are located at G-Park, Sittingbourne in Kent, and are part of a 126 acre development of former agricultural marshland.

Notes to Editors:

• The site was acquired by Gazeley, pre-let to Morrisons. The build was funded by Standard Life
• The units offer 85,000m2 of warehousing and distribution - one of the largest such developments in the UK
• Each unit has 35 truck docks
• The larger of the two units (52,400m2 ) offers ambient storage. The smaller of the two units (32,800m2 )offers refrigerated storage
• The land on which the units were built abuts a SSSI (Coldharbour Marshes), and has a high water table, meaning the build was technically challenging. The water table is controlled via a sophisticated drainage programme, which includes drainage ditches, ponds and a pumping station
• The units are highly sustainable, featuring rainwater harvesting, solar heated hot water and high frequency lighting

Details of the Fit-out Work:

• Further fit out to single storey office
• Construction of Changing & Amenity block
• Construction of Goods In & Drivers Office
• Fit out to Canteen
• Further fit out to 1st floor Transport Offices
• Installation of Pallet racking system to main warehouse area, with integrated sprinkler systems
• Installation of Mechanical services (frost protection, heating, hot & cold water, ventilation, sanitaryware and above ground drainage)
• Installation of Electrical services (containment, cabling generator and UPS equipment, lighting systems (including emergency lighting), power supplies, fire alarm systems, data cabling, PA & music system
• Installation of overhead travelling crane & scissor lifts within forklift maintenance bay
• Security installations (CCTV, access control & intruder detection & alarms)
• Protection metalwork, signage & floor marking

• Structural steelwork to support refrigeration equipment, stairs & walkways
• Ammonia & Glycol refrigeration system and all associated works
• Installation of whitewall system to internal perimeter and construction of chill area to approx one third of warehouse space
• Installation of sprinkler systems & 2no water storage tanks to the sprinkler plant room
• Installation of Mechanical services (frost protection, heating, hot & cold water, ventilation, sanitaryware and above ground drainage)
• 2 storey offices & amenities to chilled storage (structural steel frame, steel deck & concrete floors, blockwork walls, doors, windows and finishes) and design and installation of an elevated gantry walkway
• Offices & amenities to Produce
• Installation of various racking systems
• Construction of a battery charge area
• Goods in office & rest room to bread warehouse
• Fit out of VMU to ground & 1st floor
• Installation of overhead travelling crane & scissor lifts to VMU
• Installation of operation based equipment to VMU (oils, lubricants, compressed air)
• Security installations (CCTV, access control & intruder detection & alarms)
• Protection metalwork, signage & floor marking
• Installation of Balers & Chassis Wash

External Works

• Completion of fuelling facilities (canopies & pumps)
• Completion of vehicle wash (equipment & side screens)
• Construction of covered walkway
• Turnstile staff entry control system
• Smoking shelters
• LPG storage tank enclosure
• Installation of a Trailer wash
• Installation of sprinkler tanks
• External signage and markings