Report

M1 South Industrial Databook - August 2025

28.8.25 DATABOOK

Supply shortages fuel rental growth outlook in M1 South

Take-up in Milton Keynes surged in the first half of 2025, already surpassing total activity for 2024, boosted by the delivery of new stock. Availability has edged higher, but fresh requirements mean the market enters the second half of the year in a strong position.

Northampton presents a contrasting picture: availability has risen sharply, yet the lack of grade A space is set to constrain activity through 2025. With demand holding firm, we forecast further rental growth for 2025 and 2026.

2026 will see 585k sq ft delivered, with two thirds of this space coming forward in Milton Keynes. However, this remains a fraction of the market’s current requirements.

On the investment side, appetite for industrial assets remains strong, though the M1 South market was relatively quiet in early 2025, with Milton Keynes showing more buoyancy.

1.4^million

sq ft take up in the Milton Keynes and Northampton markets in H1 2025, with 330,000 sq ft under offer at end of June

7.6^m

sq is the demand for Big Box units in Milton Keynes

£14.5^psf

Prime rents in Milton Keynes at new high, with rents in Northampton rising to £12.25 psf.

Download our M1 South Industrial Databook:

Get in touch

Sue Foxley

Research Director

Sue leads a dynamic programme of research at Bidwells. Working with her colleague Mark Callender, she is particularly focused on the real estate implications of the science and technology sector.

Saul Western

Partner, Head of Commercial

Providing thorough and professional investment advice across the golden triangle and beyond.

Paul Davies

Partner, Industrial & Logistics Agency

Heading our industrial agency team in Milton Keynes, Paul brings unparalleled industry expertise to the table.

Industrial & Logistics

Find out more

M1 South Industrial Databook - August 2025