A ground-breaking logistics development at GLP’s flagship logistics park Magna Park Milton Keynes, that on completion in 2020 was confirmed as the world’s first Net Zero Carbon for Construction verified building in line with the UKGBC framework. It is GLP’s 6th building to go through the Planet Mark accreditation scheme and part of its strategy to reduce the carbon footprint further.

GLP is committed to achieving continual improvement not only in terms of how efficiently it constructs buildings, but in the specifications it sets out and the materials used. On the development of Magnitude the project team went a stage further to undertake more detailed, deeper assessments of the build, with the building specifications set to maximise both efficiency and sustainability of materials, resulting in significantly lower levels of embodied carbon.

Key members of the building supply chain including material manufacturers and component suppliers were asked to provide a complete breakdown and assessment of the products being supplied including details of their origin, embodied carbon value and whether the product can be reused or recycled. Chetwoods Thrive and Circular Ecology, along with other leaders in their fields, were engaged to help the design team and wider supply chain collaborate and reduce as much embodied carbon as possible.

An innovative design approach tested principles of grid-based modular systems and standardisation, to improve elevations and interiors, reduce waste, and improve ease of construction, efficiency and flexibility. The office element was designed for maximum future flexibility whilst maximising space. The design was adopted as the new model for all future GLP projects.

The project followed WELL principles throughout and is rated BREEAM 2014 Excellent.

“Magnitude is a milestone development for GLP and the logistics industry. It paves the way for further net zero carbon development as we continue our strategy of reducing our carbon footprint, keeping sustainability at the forefront of both the design and construction processes. We are proud to have developed the world’s first building to be verified as net zero carbon for construction and look forward to continuing our sustainability journey.” Steven Alexander, European Head of Construction, GLP Europe

 “This is a landmark development for GLP and we hope that it will set a new standard for sustainability in the sector. The team is constantly striving to find innovative ways to improve the carbon footprint of our buildings and ensure that GLP is considered synonymous with sustainable development.” Nick Cook, President, GLP Europe

“The urgency of the climate crisis means it is vital that we address all carbon impacts from buildings including the upfront embodied carbon from products, materials and construction. In some cases these can account for up to half of a new building’s lifetime carbon impacts – before it has even been occupied. We are delighted to see GLP leading the way by becoming the first developer to achieve net zero carbon for construction using UKGBC’s Framework. We hope that this will act as an example to the rest of the industry and inspire others to go even further in reducing the impacts from construction.” Julie Hirigoyen, Chief Executive, UKGBC

“We have partnered with GLP for over thirty years to pioneer the design of the sustainable logistics warehouse developments for which both companies are renowned.  During this time we have worked together to develop innovative approaches and solutions and we continue to collaborate closely to push boundaries.  We have acted as master planners, design and delivery architects, and ESG consultants”. Tim Ward, CEO Chetwoods