New self-storage operator StoreAway is transforming 34,000 sq. ft of redundant retail space in Cheltenham’s former Lidl supermarket on Grosvenor Terrace into a thriving storage hub.
The site, which was originally built in the late 1970s, has been vacant for almost two years since the supermarket giant relocated to Swindon Road in September 2020. It has now been transformed to play host to 325 lockers and will open to the public on Monday, July 4th.
The announcement comes as part of StoreAway’s disruptive plans to repurpose more than a quarter of a million sq. ft of unoccupied shopping and leisure units across the country into convenient storage.
Managing Director of StoreAway Richard Lanyon, who has more than 30 years’ experience as a Chartered Surveyor, said: “We have an effective long-term vision for the future and despite the company still being in the early stages of development we have captured the attention of Nash Business Capital, who are investing £2.5 million into our new Cheltenham site.
“We are embracing the challenges that come with transforming disused buildings with the demise of the traditional retail sector and the former Lidl site is housed in the ideal location for our storage concept to thrive. In a prime town-center spot on the doorsteps of our customers, it offers great access and loading spaces, and can be repositioned as a leader on the country’s high streets.”
The brand’s flagship store opened in Liverpool in April and further sites have now been confirmed in Birmingham, Basildon, and Bath, which are set to launch later this year.
Established by leading experts in self-storage management and property, the concept puts technology at the forefront of its offering by embracing in control systems that allow users to access their storage via a smartphone app with the option of sharing entry with friends and family through a tailored approach.
Joint Managing Director & Founder of StoreAway Christian Yates added: “When developing this concept, we wanted to create a service that was inclusive to modern life, meaning that the one size fits all approach simply would not work. By eradicating this, we have been able to open our doors to those seeking flexibility and control over their own time, space and routine – so that’s exactly what we have done.
“We know that StoreAway will be of particular benefit to Cheltenham’s local community and businesses alike, and we are really looking forward to building these relationships over the next couple of months. However, this idea is inclusive of all demographics; from those moving house and needing a place for their furniture, companies requiring extra stockroom space or individuals on the lookout for a place to store their clutter. Our flexible lease options are available to give people control of their storage and it allows them to find what works best for them.”
Supporting the launch and operations of each site is leading independent storage consultancy Engage, led by Anthony Adams and Mark Van Adrichem, who alongside their team have built a respected reputation amongst the storage community over the past decade.
