2,400 jobs in £400 million plan to regenerate former Vauxhall factory site in Luton
Around 2,400 jobs could be created in Luton as plans for the £400 million regeneration of the former Vauxhall van factory are submitted.
The outline plan from Goodman, which bought the 36-hectare site in March 2025, includes a high-quality commercial and industrial park that it says will attract a mix of businesses from a range of sectors including manufacturing, engineering, digital infrastructure and advanced logistics.
Following a detailed economic impact assessment, it is estimated the regeneration will create some 2,400 jobs and contribute almost £160 million each year to the town’s economy.
And if given the go ahead construction is expected to start next year, with the first new businesses moving in in 2028.
The outline planning application will set the framework for development and has been shaped by working closely with Luton Council and a consultation process with residents, businesses and community organisations, which was run by Goodman last autumn.
The planning application will now be formally considered by Luton Council. A separate application to deconstruct the existing factory buildings has already been approved by Luton Council and remediation work will start later this spring.
Jason Harris, commercial director at Goodman, said: “This has been a collaborative approach, and we are grateful to the Council, residents, and community and business partners for their feedback and insights, which have helped to shape our plans. We look forward to continuing that partnership as we move ahead with our detailed proposals and ensure the site becomes a catalyst for Luton’s long-term economic growth, a source of pride for the community, and delivers local opportunity for generations to come.”
Councillor James Taylor, portfolio holder for regeneration and Inclusive Growth at Luton Council, added: "The submission of the planning application is a major milestone in the future of this key strategic site. We have been encouraged by Goodman’s approach to the regeneration, particularly the vision for a mix of new commercial and industrial uses, as well as the speed in which they are acting to bring this site back into use.
“These plans are being submitted less than a year after the van plant closed, a direct contrast to the neighbouring former Vauxhall Motors site, which sat waiting to be redeveloped for over a decade. This is a clear vote of confidence by Goodman in our recently launched Economic Growth Strategy, bringing in vital long-term investment to Luton and creating thousands of new jobs for local people.”