Amazon doubles down on Belfast logistics

Amazon has struck a deal to take more space at Titanic Quarter

The online retail giant has occupied a 40,000 sq ft unit in Channel Commercial Park at the Belfast Harbour site since late 2018.

However, Titanic Quarter, which is controlled by Dublin-based Harcourt Development, has secured planning to demolish this site to make way for a new, larger facility.

The online retail giant will lease a circa 80,000 sq ft warehouse facility as well as a three-tiered van storage centre accommodating 479 spaces.

It has signed up to a 15-20-year lease and its rent will be based on the value of the development, EG understands.

Harcourt is expected to build the new facility over the next 12-18 months. Belfast planning officials signalled the new warehouse project could go ahead at a committee meeting in November.

Harcourt has an agreement with Belfast Harbour to regenerate the 185 acres of waterfront, former shipping land which comprises Titanic Quarter.

The move comes as Amazon seeks to deepen its local networks of delivery vans for its last-mile delivery service.

The US firm is also reportedly seeking its first warehouse in the Republic of Ireland to carry out orders currently shipped from the UK, in light of Britain preparing to leave the European Union, according to Bloomberg.

It is understood CBRE advised Amazon on the deal.

Amazon and Harcourt Developments were approached for comment. CBRE declined to comment.

Pictured above - two views of Amazon’s 80,000 sq ft warehouse and 479 space three-tiered van storage centre under construction at Titanic Quarter in Belfast - June 2020