Plans for a major self-storage development on New Quay Road, Lancaster, have been approved, paving the way for a 24-hour facility offering 475 drive-up units.

The scheme, promoted by WUKPG, will deliver 51,000 sq ft of storage space on a 6.4-acre site formerly occupied by Travis Perkins. Acquired by WUKPG for £1.1m in 2023, the site will be managed under the company’s in-house Shutter Store brand.

Units will range from 50 sq ft to 300 sq ft, designed to “institutional standards” and incorporating modern proptech such as Noké keyless access, ANPR, CCTV, EV charging, solar panels and Stora booking systems. C4 Projects is leading design, with HK Planning advising on planning and XO Square as civil and structural engineer.

While councillors raised concerns over lighting impacts on nearby wildlife in Freeman’s Wood, planning officers concluded that mitigation measures, including cowl-fitted LED lighting and restricted illumination times, would minimise ecological disruption. A £15,000 contribution to local highways improvements was also secured.

The project forms part of WUKPG’s ambition to create a £150m self-storage portfolio by 2030, with additional schemes in Horwich and Northwich underway. Practical completion of the Lancaster site is expected in 2026.

Photo: Designed by C4 Projects, the new development will offer 475 units.