Winvic Construction Ltd has been appointed by Logistics Capital Partners (LCP) to deliver the first industrial unit at West Midlands Interchange (WMI) — a major milestone for the transformative £2 billion logistics development near Wolverhampton. The project, a purpose-built depot for Carlsberg Britvic, was officially launched with a groundbreaking ceremony marking the start of construction.
Carlsberg Britvic was announced as WMI’s inaugural occupier earlier this year, signalling the first phase of development at what is set to become the UK’s largest intermodal logistics park. The scheme, strategically located at Junction 12 of the M6, is being developed by Oxford Properties and LCP, bringing together global investment, sustainable design and regional regeneration.
A Pioneering First Build
Winvic, which previously served as design-stage delivery partner for WMI, has played a key role in laying the groundwork for the site since 2023. The contractor’s early works have included extensive infrastructure delivery — from new highways and utilities to the reconfiguration of energy systems, earthworks and landscaping.
Among these milestones was the successful completion of a tunnelling operation beneath the Staffordshire and Worcestershire Canal, achieved in collaboration with Active Tunnelling. The 25-metre tunnel, installed using a Tunnel Boring Machine named Red Emma by CECA Midlands in honour of local reformer Emma Sproson, was a significant step in enabling WMI’s site-wide drainage network.
Sustainable Construction at Scale
Winvic has now commenced the 37-week build programme for the new 220,000 sq ft depot, which will include 11,400 sq ft of office accommodation and complete in Spring 2026. The facility has been designed around Carlsberg Britvic’s operational and sustainability goals, integrating advanced building performance standards and a commitment to Net Zero in Operation.
Targeting BREEAM ‘Excellent’ and EPC A+ ratings, the depot will feature high-efficiency heat pumps, rainwater harvesting, and extensive PV-ready roof space. Ecological enhancements will also be implemented throughout design and delivery, ensuring alignment with the Net Zero Carbon Building Pilot Standard.
Investing in Local Skills and Communities
Alongside construction, Winvic has embedded a strong social value agenda, creating a bespoke Employment Skills and Training Plan (ESTP) to maximise local benefits. To date, 18 industry placements totalling 186 weeks of experience and five apprenticeships have been supported, alongside training programmes in partnership with supply chain partners to help residents gain accredited qualifications.
Working with the WMI Brokerage and Staffordshire Jobs and Careers Service, 41% of the project workforce currently live within a 30-mile radius. Winvic has also launched community-led initiatives including Careers and Teacher Encounter Days, designed to showcase construction career pathways for local educators and students.
Industry Leaders on the Milestone
Danny Nelson, Managing Director of Industrial, Logistics and Distribution at Winvic Construction, commented:
“Having been part of WMI since the early stages, we’re proud to deliver the first industrial unit on what will be one of the UK’s most sustainable, rail-connected logistics parks. Our collaboration with Oxford Properties, LCP and Carlsberg Britvic will not only deliver a high-performance facility but also tangible employment and skills opportunities for the region.”
David Bodily, Property & Facilities Director at Carlsberg Britvic, said:
“The West Midlands Interchange will play a vital role in our UK logistics network, serving customers across the region from Q4 2026. Our new depot represents a long-term investment in people, infrastructure and sustainability, and we’re delighted to see construction now underway.”
Robin Everall, Head of Development at Oxford Properties, added:
“Breaking ground at WMI marks an important step in the evolution of the UK’s foremost logistics hub. With exceptional transport connectivity and highly sustainable design credentials, it is already attracting blue-chip occupiers seeking bespoke, future-proof facilities.”
James Markby, Managing Partner at LCP, said:
“This project is another major stride toward realising WMI’s potential as the country’s most significant rail-served logistics development. It will be pivotal in decarbonising UK logistics, supporting national net zero ambitions and generating around 8,500 direct jobs across the West Midlands and beyond.”
About West Midlands Interchange
Due for full completion by 2034, West Midlands Interchange will deliver over 8 million sq ft of logistics space across a 734-acre site, with individual units ranging from 200,000 to 1.2 million sq ft. Supported by a dedicated rail freight terminal, the scheme is set to reshape the national logistics landscape — advancing modal shift, regional investment, and the UK’s journey toward a low-carbon future.
