Sharnbrook Commercial Development

Berrys was appointed by a long standing client to deliver a commercial redevelopment of the silos at the Sharnbrook Grain Storage site in Bedfordshire. Following an earlier refused residential proposal prepared by others, Berrys developed an alternative B8 commercial scheme that responded positively to planning policy and the site’s constraints.

How We Approached The Project

The site is complex, with steep topography, proximity to a river, neighbouring commercial uses and an adjacent historic theatre. A large existing silo dominates the site and formed a key consideration in shaping the design and planning strategy. The proposed development replaces the silos and associated agricultural buildings with five industrial units of a more appropriate scale and appearance, significantly improving the visual impact of the site.

The application was accompanied by a robust Planning Statement that successful demonstrated the suitability of the site and the location for the proposal and addressed any technical matters. Architecture and planning teams worked closely to develop a robust solution, with early input from Berrys’ engineering and heritage teams to ensure the scheme was fully coordinated and deliverable. The planning consultants worked effectively with the council to overcome issues during the planning application process and secured a planning approval with minimal conditions and within 7 months of submission in October 2025.

How We Achieved The Project

The project is now progressing through procurement, with Berrys leading the tender process and supporting the client through development management, with the potential for ongoing involvement through construction. We are also working closely with our agency team to support the marketing and letting of the units.

The commercial redevelopment at Sharnbrook Grain Storage showcases the strength of Berrys’ multidisciplinary approach, with our planning, architecture, engineering, heritage, development management and agency teams working seamlessly to deliver a successful outcome.