We are pleased to announce the successful completion of a state-of-the-art, multi-million-pound landmark facility in West Thurrock for Spectrum VR, a leading company in the maintenance and repair of commercial vehicle body shells. This achievement follows the successful planning approval on 21st December 2022.

The new facility replaces the existing HGV service and repair workshop on the site, featuring a 18,500 sq.ft seven-bay purpose-built structure designed to support Spectrum VR’s expanding operations. This modern development enhances their visibility.

In collaboration with multi-sector specialist contractor Thomas Sinden, we developed the site to include a main workshop equipped with a bespoke paint centre, specialist equipment and a paint oven for vehicle repair and painting. The attached two-storey office block accommodates day-to-day operations, seminar and training rooms, as well as hydration and breakout spaces for Spectrum VR staff. Additionally, a landscape buffer separates the service yard from a busy roundabout, creating outdoor amenity spaces for staff.

Designed with contemporary aesthetics, the building features light grey cladding, dark grey windows and sections of feature brickwork on key corners. The workshop bays are distinguished by half-height brick and contrasting cladding colours between bays. The main office entrance is highlighted by double-height corner glazing, providing natural light to the public-facing workspace. A dark grey feature portal surrounds the atria and main entrance doors, further identifying the main entrance for visitors.

In order to achieve its BREEAM ‘Very Good’ rating, the West Thurrock project incorporates an energy-efficient external envelope with high thermal performance and a high air tightness rating. The energy strategy prioritises renewable energy, maximising roof space to accommodate numerous PV panels. This focus on energy efficiency was a key consideration for the client, aiming to reduce ongoing operational costs.

Images courtesy of Gary Britton Photography.