Client: Prologis The Ipeco Southend project involved the development of a bespoke 120,000 square-foot industrial unit at Airport Business Park Southend, designed specifically for Ipeco, a leading manufacturer of aircraft seats and parts. As part of the Southend Council and Henry Boot Developments’ masterplan for a flexible B1/B2/B8 use business park, the project plays a key role in boosting local business investment and job creation. The business park’s location near London Southend Airport offers excellent transport connectivity, making it ideal for companies involved in manufacturing and logistics. The new Ipeco facility accommodates heavy industrial processes, presenting significant geotechnical and structural challenges. Services we provided Structural Engineering Civil & Infrastructure Engineering Ecology & Heritage Geotechnical & Ground Engineering Ground Investigation & Land Quality Transport Planning & Traffic Engineering Water Engineering & Flood Risk Show More Our Role BWB was appointed by Henry Boot Developments (HBD) to provide civil and structural engineering services for the bespoke industrial unit at ABP Southend. Our involvement included the design of heavy-duty foundations and a flexible structural solution that could support Ipeco’s manufacturing operations while accommodating potential future reconfigurations. Ground conditions Given the challenging ground conditions and existing infrastructure constraints, we developed a comprehensive earthworks strategy to optimise site levels. By re-engineering the site levels, utilising stockpiles, and proposing design changes to the infrastructure drainage, BWB achieved a balanced cut-and-fill, minimising material imports and reducing project costs and environmental impact. Clear communication Our team also navigated the complexities of working alongside an incumbent engineering firm that was responsible for developing the sitewide infrastructure. This required clear communication and coordination to ensure our design solutions aligned with the broader masterplan principles. Transparent collaboration with the incumbent engineers enabled us to highlight issues early, propose design changes, and deliver both packages of work smoothly to our valued client. Stakeholder management The project also faced social challenges, as neighbouring property owners frequently raised objections, including legal threats and physical blockades. BWB worked proactively with the local authority to address these objections, ensuring that the project remained on schedule.