Festival Park in Ebbw Vale Experiences Significant Lettings Surge
The newly-established Festival Park in Ebbw Vale has received a substantial boost with the announcement of five new lettings. This development, owned by Birmingham-based Mercia Real Estate, has transformed the former retail park site into a modern industrial hub.
Transformation of a Historic Site
Mercia Real Estate acquired the 70-acre site in 2021, which previously hosted the last British Garden Festival in 1992. The company has since developed 24 industrial units totaling 84,202 square feet, designed to cater to local and national businesses as well as logistics operators.
The units range in size from 958 square feet to 8,504 square feet, supporting various business uses including light industrial operations, trade counters, and storage facilities. This redevelopment aims to breathe new life into an area with a rich industrial and cultural history.
New Tenants and Their Impact
Water Treatment Products Ltd (WTP), one of the UK's premier water treatment chemical manufacturers, has signed a three-year lease for Unit 10, the largest unit on the estate at 8,478 square feet. Managing Director Steve Jones emphasized the strategic importance of this location, noting that it provides much-needed storage space and enhances efficiency with its excellent links to the newly-completed Heads of the Valleys road network. The company employs 55 people at its manufacturing premises in Blaenavon.
Start-up sheet metal fabricator Gwent Profiles has secured a five-year lease for Unit 20. Director Adam Rees highlighted the company's goal to supply industrial roofing products across South Wales, the southwest of England, and eventually the entire UK. Rees expressed a strong commitment to the local community, stating that securing premises in the Blaenau Gwent area was crucial for creating opportunities and helping restore Festival Park as a thriving hub.
Local coach and minibus operator Blowers Travel Services has signed a ten-year lease for the 7,546 square foot Unit 18, further diversifying the tenant mix at the park.
Cultural and Community Contributions
At Unit 15, MHDA CIC, a not-for-profit dance and performing arts company established in 2003, has signed a five-year lease. Owner and Artistic Director Florence Craft described securing dedicated premises at Festival Park as a major milestone and the realization of a long-held ambition. She praised the unit for its size, beautiful presentation, parking facilities, and peaceful setting, which are rare finds for a dance academy.
The site's historical significance adds to its appeal. Originally the location of the former British Steel steel and tin works, which was partly demolished in the early 1980s, it was chosen for the last British Garden Festival in 1992. That event attracted over two million visitors during its run from May to October, making this redevelopment a meaningful revival of a community landmark.
This lettings boost underscores the growing demand for industrial and commercial space in Ebbw Vale, driven by strategic location and high-quality facilities. Mercia Real Estate's investment is poised to stimulate local economic growth and provide valuable opportunities for businesses and the community alike.
