AN industrial and distribution estate near an airport - which played a key role in reinforcing Britain’s military strength in the sky during the Second World War - is on sale for more than £30 million.

Leeds Bradford Airport Depot, which sits to the north of the airport in Yeadon, is a more than 60-acre site that includes a single building structure extending to 1.25 million sq ft and is being marketed by Leeds property consultancy, GV&Co’s investment division.

The depot was originally built by the Avro Aircraft Company and between 1939 and 1946 it became a ‘shadow factory’ with its roof camouflaged in grass, complete with imitation farm buildings and dummy animals. This meant from the sky is looked like agricultural land rather than the largest industrial production centre in Europe, which it quickly evolved into.

Bradford Telegraph and Argus: Leeds Bradford Airport Depot is a site which spans more than 60 acres Leeds Bradford Airport Depot is a site which spans more than 60 acres (Image: Candid PR)

The estate contributed to the war effort on a colossal scale with around 700 Lancaster Bombers and 4,500 Ansons built at the site by a 17,500-strong workforce. The remains of the taxiway from the factory to the main airfield, which later became Leeds Bradford Airport, are still visible.

GV&Co is instructed to seek offers in excess of £30 million, subject to contract and exclusive of VAT.

The estate, which is accessed directly from Harrogate Road via two manned gatehouse-controlled access points, provides accommodation in 15 units ranging in size from approximately 25,000 sq ft to 150,000 sq ft. It has vehicle and HGV access to all areas and units. The estate has seven tenants, with a total passing rent of more than £2.9 million per year. It is the first time the site has been on sale since 1969.

The property has been adapted and modernised during its ownership by Broadland Properties Group, in order to meet tenant and occupational requirements.

Garry Howes, director of investment at GV&Co, said: “Leeds Bradford Airport Depot is a landmark building in West Yorkshire and very well-known due to its vast scale, prominent location and rich history.

“The development has more than stood the test of time, and continually attracts and retains strong national tenants including the likes of APCOA, VPK Packaging, Jet2, VLT Logistics and Toyota Tsusho.

“The site could also offer a substantial income producing asset management or major redevelopment opportunity, subject to planning, and we’re therefore anticipating strong interest from regional, national and international investors.”

Interested parties for the Leeds Bradford Airport Depot should contact Garry Howes or Dan Walker at the sole selling agents GV&Co.

 

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