RGP were appointed by Aldi Stores Limited for their recent expansion programme within the UK; this included the realisation of a number of regional distribution centres strategically located around the country to serve local foodstores. RGP Architects have currently designed and been involved in the construction of four of these distribution centres at Chelmsford, Naas, Bathgate and Neston. The latter two were procured under construction management contracts administered by our own RGP Construction Management team. The regional distribution centre sits on approximately 30 acres of land. The gross internal floor area of the warehouse is in excess of 300,000 sq.ft. with a potential for up to a 50% future increase. A total of sixty seven loading bays were required to maintain a high level of operational efficiency. The management and administration staff is accommodated in the fully air-conditioned office wing that have openable windows to permit natural ventilation. Additional staff facilities are also included within the warehouse. Materials used include brick, reformed stone and fair-face concrete. Windows are double glazed set in thermally broken aluminium frames. Modular components have been incorporated to speed construction and reduce costs.