Fit-out underway at Sewtec Automation’s new multi-million pound 72,000 sq ft manufacturing facility in Wakefield

Work is underway to fit-out Sewtec’s new multi-million pound 75,000 sq ft design and manufacturing facility in Wakefield.

As part of our ongoing growth and transformation strategy, we’ve signed a 15-year lease on a building located at Silkwood Park near junction 40 of the M1. Our new location is more than double the size of the current premises in Dewsbury and Wakefield combined.

Investment in the new facility is supported by the Leeds City Region Enterprise Partnership (LEP) Business Growth Programme with a £250,000 grant for us to invest in our new headquarters and to implement its recruitment strategy. We estimate the new site will create an additional 70 high-skilled jobs.

Derbyshire-based Key Property Solutions is the main contractor on the fit-out after being appointed following a competitive tendering process. The new facility will include modern R&D and office spaces, with breakout areas to further enhance innovation and problem-solving. It will also provide a significant increase in the sizes of the assembly area, machine shop, quality control, fabrication bays and stores.

Works are expected to last ten weeks with all 130 employees from our existing Dewsbury and Wakefield sites undergoing a phased relocation to the facility from March onwards.

Commenting on this latest news, Sewtec managing director, Mark Cook, said: “Demand for our inventive and highly effective approach to automation continues to grow worldwide. With work now underway at our new facility, the next stage of Sewtec Automation’s transformation is almost upon us and we are all motivated and excited by the new opportunities our new facility will deliver.

“Our investment, combined with the support of the LEP and Wakefield Council, means we will be in the optimum position for further expansion and job creation as soon as we move in.”

Roger Marsh OBE DL, chair of LEP and NP11, said: “Investment is a key factor in helping our businesses to grow, improve productivity and ultimately create new jobs.

“Last year, through our Business Growth Programme, we invested £5.9 million to support 128 businesses in the region and contributed to the creation of 704 jobs.

“I’d encourage all businesses to get in touch with the LEP Growth Service and access the support available for growing businesses”

Darren Byford, cabinet member for economic growth and regeneration at Wakefield Council, said: “We are very pleased that Sewtec Automation has chosen to expand their operations in Wakefield. It’s great news, bringing quality new jobs and opportunities in a growing sector.

“With strong transport links and a great business community, Wakefield provides an excellent location for investment. As part of our economic strategy we are very keen to support businesses to help them to grow and expand, offering a range of support and advice to both established and new businesses within our district.”

Fox Lloyd Jones (FLJ), which advised on the building’s acquisition, is project managing the fit-out supported by architects Enjoy Design and Triangle Consulting Engineers. FLJ and Enjoy Design are both located in Leeds, whilst Triangle Consulting Engineers are based in Tadcaster.

AIR Wakefield

AIR Wakefield, formerly Sewtec.

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