Goodman has submitted a planning application to Luton Council detailing its regeneration plans for the site of the former Vauxhall van factory.
The property group acquired the 36-hectare site in March 2025 and has developed plans for a high-quality commercial and industrial park that will attract a mix of businesses from a range of sectors, including manufacturing, engineering, digital infrastructure and advanced logistics.
The outline planning application will set the framework for development and has been shaped by working closely with Luton Council and a consultation process with local residents, businesses and community organisations, which was run by Goodman last autumn.
Following a detailed economic impact assessment, it is estimated that the regeneration will create approximately 2,400 jobs. The plans represent an investment by Goodman in excess of £400 million and will contribute almost £160 million each year to the local economy.
The planning application will now be formally considered by Luton Council. Subject to approval, Goodman expects construction to start in 2027, with the first new businesses able to occupy the site in 2028.
A separate application to deconstruct the existing factory buildings has been approved by Luton Council and remediation work will start later this spring.
Jason Harris, Commercial Director at Goodman, said:
“This has been a collaborative approach, and we are grateful to the Council, residents, and community and business partners for their feedback and insights, which have helped to shape our plans. We look forward to continuing that partnership as we move ahead with our detailed proposals and ensure the site becomes a catalyst for Luton’s long-term economic growth, a source of pride for the community, and delivers local opportunity for generations to come.”
Councillor James Taylor, Portfolio Holder for Regeneration and Inclusive Growth at Luton Council, added:
“The submission of the planning application is a major milestone in the future of this key strategic site. We have been encouraged by Goodman’s approach to the regeneration, particularly the vision for a mix of new commercial and industrial uses, as well as the speed in which they are acting to bring this site back into use.
“These plans are being submitted less than a year after the van plant closed, a direct contrast to the neighbouring former Vauxhall Motors site, which sat waiting to be redeveloped for over a decade. This is a clear vote of confidence by Goodman in our recently launched Economic Growth Strategy, bringing in vital long-term investment to Luton and creating thousands of new jobs for local people.”
Manufacturing & Engineering Magazine | The Home of Manufacturing Industry News
