The manufacturer, set to build the giga-factory in Puriton, near Bridgwater, has submitted a compliance application for Building One, the first building planned for the multi-billion-pound site.
The news comes in parallel with the announcement of the phased appointment of Sir Robert McAlpine as the official delivery partner for the construction of Building One and ancillary development, which is scheduled to be operational in 2026.
Joe Hibbert, Vice President for Capital Projects at Agratas commented: “We have reached an important milestone as we start work with Sir Robert McAlpine to ramp up development of one of the most significant projects of its kind, with huge potential for Somerset and the UK.”
“We’ve had really strong support from the community. We do not take this for granted and know that delivering on our commitment to people means being a good neighbour, keeping them updated on how we’ll mitigate the impacts of construction, and turning our local first approach to jobs and skills from vision to reality.”
Grant Findlay, Executive Managing Director for Buildings, Sir Robert McAlpine, said: “Through our 155-year heritage, we have been at the forefront of industrial change in the UK, so we’re excited to be on board with Agratas as delivery partner. We’re fully aligned in our ambitions for sustainability and making a long lasting, positive impact through partnership with communities.”
A spokesperson for Agratas added: "Agratas’ site at the Gravity Smart Campus benefits from planning permission granted by a Local Development Order.
"This compliance application sets out how the plans for Building One and ancillary development align with that approval. Subject to Somerset Council issuing a compliance certificate, the organisation will embark on the next step of delivery.
"This follows a busy year of enabling works and extensive community consultation in collaboration with the Parish Councils of Puriton and Woolavington, local businesses and community groups.
The submission includes a construction environmental management plan that provides information which addresses site operations, working hours, transportation, noise and vibration control, air quality, and ecological considerations.
"Construction will follow a 24-hour weekday schedule, with overnight activities restricted to quieter or internal works to ensure residential amenity.
"Traffic access will be via Enterprise Way, with an estimated average of 200 lorry movements per day associated with the construction of Building One.
"Onsite test piling is now complete, with piling for Building One expected to commence in the coming weeks, lasting until spring 2025."
