Solent Business Park
Solent Business Park is a dynamic 130-acre business hub, located in Whiteley, near Southampton. The park has convenient access to the M27 and is located just off junction 9. It is home to the likes of ITV, Shoosmiths, NATS, Zurich, Specsavers and HSBC.
This lush park features a central avenue surrounded by beautifully landscaped, tree-lined spaces and open green areas, offering an inviting and tranquil environment for a wide range of businesses.
Case Study
IPM Facilities were successful in their tender bid to provide grounds maintenance services and were awarded the contract which began in October 2024.
The park’s layout is designed to foster a harmonious blend of work and nature, with pocket parks, open grass verges, scenic walking paths around a central lake, picnic spots, and small wooded areas that provide ample space for relaxation and reflection.
These natural elements create a picturesque and peaceful setting that enhances the day-to-day work experience for employees and visitors alike. Beyond being a workspace, Solent Business Park cultivates a vibrant community atmosphere with an extensive array of on-site amenities.
The permanent gardening staff were retained and transferred to our employment under TUPE regulations. We found a demotivated team who were working with outdated, poor-quality equipment.
We promptly decided to address this issue and integrated them into our induction program, introducing them to all aspects of IPM Facilities’ business and management.
Upon being awarded the contract, we collaborated with our client to upgrade their welfare and depot facilities. We provided new, state-of-the-art tools and machinery, along with comprehensive training. Now, the park gardening team actively participates in weekly and monthly Park meetings with our client and IPM Facilities management team.
Services
Along with all the usual gardening and grounds maintenance services provided by IPM Facilities, we also used our in-house landscape architect and site team to implement biodiverse planting schemes across the site. Within 6 months of the start of the contract we, with the financial assistance of our client, have been able to re bark mulch all the borders, helping to retain moisture in the soil and reduce the growth of annual weeds.
The Park has numerous mature trees and woodland areas and as these are accessible to the public it was important that a survey was carried out to provide information about the trees' condition and potential risks. From this survey we then are able to make informed decisions about their care and management and undertake necessary arboricultural works.
Overall, IPM Facilities is proud to deliver grounds maintenance services to Solent Business Park. We are thrilled by the opportunity to help develop and enhance the site, showcasing our wide range of landscaping and management solutions. Our team is committed to demonstrating the quality and versatility of our services, ensuring the ongoing growth and improvement of Solent Business Park’s outdoor spaces.
Mitch Hurt – Senior Regional Facilities Manager
“We awarded IPM Facilities the grounds maintenance contract for Solent Business Park in October 2024.
Since taking over, they have improved the overall landscape maintenance regime of the park. The park landscaping has improved immeasurably since IPM Facilities took over the management of the landscaping.
The Park landscaping team is now motivated, well-managed and well equipped.
The maintenance specification is now being routinely followed, with clear adherence to expected standards.
IPM Facilities have ensured quality control for all landscape staff and the landscape management is proactive and always looking for improvements.
IPM has also taken proactive steps toward environmental stewardship by proposing new biodiversity planting areas.
Regular site meetings with a designated landscape manager ensure ongoing communication and accountability.
The turnaround in the Park’s condition under IPM’s management is clear for all to see and high commendable”
