ONYX Business Parks commits to delivering Phase Two at Exeter Skypark

Onyx Business Parks and Devon County Council have completed the latest land deal at Skypark near Exeter in a development described as a “massive vote of confidence” in the local economy.

Onyx Business Parks’ Phase Two at Skypark will see the construction of 36 high quality, modern business units, providing over 36,000 square feet of multi-functional commercial space.

This development is expected to support 132 construction jobs and generate over 288 highly skilled new jobs.

The award-winning developer’s decision to proceed with Skypark came after a high level in enquiries for commercial space from the success of Phase One.

Skypark, which is part of the Exeter and East Devon Enterprise Zone, is one of the South West’s most significant business park developments.

As well as the development of Onyx Business Parks Phase Two, key infrastructure works are due to start in the New Year which will service and unlock a further 11 acres of employment space.

Onyx Business Parks newly appointed sales manager, Lewis Watts said: “We have been encouraged by the number of enquiries we’ve received indicating positivity in the South West Business Market.”

In keeping with Skypark’s vision of sustainability aims, the development will include solar PV, EV charging points, covered bicycle storage, and insulated panel technology, with the build meeting the BREEAM ‘Excellent’ benchmark.

Councillor Rufus Gilbert, Cabinet Member for Economic Recovery and Skills, said:

“We are delighted to work with Onyx Business Parks to enable them to develop a high-quality business park at Skypark. This is a massive vote of confidence in our local economy and it’s extremely encouraging to see Onyx Business Parks demonstrating its commitment to economic recovery in the county. There’s a lack of small units in Devon so this development will help meet that demand and provide businesses, both existing and start-ups, with the opportunity to grow and bounce back from the impact of the coronavirus pandemic.”

Councillor Paul Arnott, Chair of Exeter and East Devon Enterprise Zone Board and Leader of East Devon District Council, said: “This second phase of commercial units from Onyx Business Parks are a welcome addition to Skypark and will complement the other three sites in our Enterprise Zone. These new units will provide much-needed space for small and medium sized businesses, creating more opportunities for high value jobs. I’m delighted to see the planned sustainability credentials which will underpin our vision for clean growth and support our transition to zero carbon.”

Freehold units will provide between 1,000 square feet and 5,000 square feet of space with the option of half or full-mezzanine floor.

Units are due to be completed in November 2024 and on sale from January 2024, providing a timely opportunity for businesses ready to grow and progress. They are ideal for a range of businesses, providing flexible layouts for occupants. What’s more, Skypark is part of the Exeter and East Devon Enterprise Zone, providing grant funding, infrastructure investment and simplified planning.

Charles Berry, Director of Onyx Business Parks, commented: “We’re committed to the development of smaller, feature-rich commercial units in prime locations like Skypark providing convenience and quality to businesses and sole traders looking to take their next step.”