UK Coal and Gazeley have submitted plans to develop a former coal disposal site in Ashby de la Zouch

The £70m joint venture between Gazeley and Harworth Estates, the property arm of UK Coal, wants to develop a 850,000 sq ft sustainable logistics building in the Leicestershire town.

Plans designed by Turley Associates were submitted to North West Leicestershire District Council this week. If successful, Gazeley and UK Coal anticipate construction will begin on the 86 acre site in mid-2008.

Eddie Peat, Harworth Estates’ property director, said: ‘There is a major need for additional distribution facilities across the east Midlands.

'The proximity to the existing rail freight track makes this an ideal location for our development. The focus on rail transport will have a positive impact as it will reduce the need to transfer goods by road, which will not only lighten congestion but also significantly reduce environmental impact.’