DIRFT 4
Meeting future demand at the UK’s premier logistics destination
Welcome to the consultation website for DIRFT 4, the proposed next phase of development at Daventry International Rail Freight Terminal (DIRFT). DIRFT is located directly to the north of Junction 18 of the M1 Motorway
Logistics keeps the UK economy moving, getting goods where they need to be and supporting businesses, jobs and the consumers who rely on them.
DIRFT has established itself as the UK’s premier logistics destination, with excellent connections to the strategic road and rail networks. In line with evolving supply chains, consumer demand and national policy, DIRFT has grown considerably since it was established in 1997.
With demand now outstripping the current supply of consented capacity, Prologis is seeking permission for the next phase of expansion that's known as DIRFT 4.
DIRFT 4 would see expansion on land to the east of the M1, connecting into the existing DIRFT site and its rail terminals via an existing bridge and two new bridges. It will be an exemplar Industrial & Logistics destination that sets new standards in technology, design and sustainability, whilst driving innovation and unlocking investment in education, skills and training facilities.
The proposals represent a £1bn+ investment from Prologis and will deliver over 5,000 new jobs and considerable economic growth. The DIRFT 4 proposals are informed by market demand, government policy and West Northamptonshire Council’s local growth aspirations.
About Prologis
Prologis is a long-term investor in UK industrial & logistics infrastructure, creating high-quality facilities that help businesses move goods efficiently, reliably and sustainably. Its parks support customers across a wide range of sectors and make a tangible contribution to local communities through jobs, skills and long-term investment.
With DIRFT at the heart of its UK portfolio, Prologis is focused on delivering places that work for customers, support local economies and help the industrial & logistics sector move towards lower carbon operations. That means building strong partnerships, investing in sustainable infrastructure and taking a long-term view of the communities where it operates.
For further information, please visit the Prologis website: https://www.prologis.co.uk/
Useful documents
A Nationally Significant Infrastructure Project
DIRFT 4 has been classified as a Nationally Significant Infrastructure Project in recognition of its ability to drive growth in the economy and have significant economic impact on a wide area. The Government has also recognised the potential of the proposals to support the delivery of strategic rail freight interchanges specifically DIRFT. This means that, like DIRFT 3, Prologis will be submitting a Development Consent Order (DCO) which will be determined by the UK Government.
The intention is to submit a DCO by the end of 2027. Ahead of this, Prologis will be undertaking extensive technical assessments and engaging comprehensively with stakeholders and local communities to inform our proposals.
The technical work for DIRFT 4 will also be informed by previous phases of DIRFT to help continue delivering the widest possible benefits for local community and the UK economy.
Register for updates
Please register to receive the latest updates about DIRFT 4 by leaving your details using the contact form below.
You can also get in touch with the project team by using the details below.
Email: consultation@prologisdirft4.com
Phone number: 0800 331 7118
Freepost: FREEPOST PROLOGIS DIRFT 4
Shaped by engagement
Over the past two decades, Prologis has worked closely with local councils, communities and stakeholders, to make DIRFT the UK’s premier rail served logistics park.
Prologis has been in regular dialogue with community representatives about the opportunity to deliver DIRFT 4 since 2019 and looks forward to sharing further details about the plans later in 2026.
Technical assessments and studies are currently being carried out to inform the proposals. This will include information about how you can engage with the consultation process, find out more and share your views - there will be multiple opportunities to do so before the DCO proposals are finalised and submitted.
Prologis is keen to engage with anyone that has an interest in the proposals so the next phase of DIRFT is designed in a way that delivers the widest possible benefits for local communities and the regional and national economy.
PARKlife - spaces for community, fitness and fun at DIRFT
What we’re proposing
Prologis is proposing to expand DIRFT on land to the east of the M1 and connect it to the existing DIRFT estate via two new bridges over the M1.
Subject to planning approval, Prologis intends to invest in excess of £1 billion at DIRFT 4 equating to an annual GVA (Gross Value Added) contribution of £195 million during the construction phase. When operational, the annual GVA contribution will rise to £228 million.
In summary, our proposals include:
- Building on the legacy and success of DIRFT by expanding the park to deliver up to 5.5 million sq ft of new industrial and logistics floorspace to support a range of industries, occupiers and market requirements
- Creating over 5,250 direct operational jobs and 2,300 indirect regional jobs, generating £228 million GVA annually
- Over 50% of the site will be landscaping and green space with vast new parkland areas that will create habitats and space for recreation areas. This includes creating a new Clifton Brook Country Park and 193 acres of new open space, woodland and footpaths at Yelvertoft Meadows
- Delivering the Prologis Research and Innovation Centre, a new training facility that will bring innovation, learning and research together from across the industrial and logistics sector
- New solar energy generation and battery storage on site to fully serve the energy needs of the new park
- Delivering two new bridges over the M1 and circular road infrastructure to ensure all traffic moves through DIRFT 3 and create seamless connections to DIRFT 4
- A new amenity hub, lorry park and welfare facility for HGV drivers including electric charging of HGVs
The expansion of DIRFT presents a unique opportunity to create an exemplar industrial and logistics park - driving innovation, supporting jobs and skills, and delivering the critical infrastructure needed to strengthen economic growth, resilience and sustainability of UK plc.
Timeline
Confirmation from Government that DIRFT 4 is a Nationally Significant Infrastructure Project
December 2025
DCO planning process begins with Planning Inspectorate
July 2026
Launch of public engagement for DIRFT 4
Autumn 2026
Further engagement for DIRFT 4
Spring 2027
Submission of the DCO to Government
Late 2027