Holistic integrated design and engineering for a European logistics center with strong impact

One of the most significant logistics projects in Rhineland-Palatinate is being built on the approximately 52-hectare site of the former US air base in Bitburg: the future European headquarters of the Frasers Group. In the first construction phase, two of a total of four planned logistics buildings with office, social, and ancillary areas, as well as extensive traffic and parking facilities, will be realized. With a gross floor area of around 127,000 square meters, a total investment volume of approximately 350 million euros, and the creation of at least 800 jobs, the project sends a strong economic signal for the region. A particular challenge at the start of the project was that the development plan was not yet legally binding. Through the early agreement of a Letter of Intent, planning work could still begin and the ambitious project schedule was secured.

Julius Berger International was commissioned with the integrated design and engineering and provided the work stages 1 to 4 of HOAI covering architectural design, mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems as well as infrastructure planning. In addition, the structural engineering department provided support in developing an economical structural and foundation concept. Special technical requirements arose, among other aspects, from the drainage of the extensive site: most of the rainwater is discharged in a controlled manner via a rainwater retention basin with a capacity of around 20,000 cubic meters, which required intensive coordination with the relevant authorities. Further, there was the planning of soil remediation due to previous military use, as well as nature conservation issues.

Thanks to integrated planning from a single source, close coordination with the client and authorities, and comprehensive logistics expertise, Julius Berger International was able to develop a sustainable and future-proof solution that is ready for approval. The targeted BREEAM certification rating of “Excellent” underscores the project's high quality and sustainability standards and creates a long-term, valuable foundation for the customer's European logistics location.