Phoenix UK has announced it will invest over £13m in a new distribution hub for medical products.

The facility is being built by GMI Construction Group on behalf of developer HBD and York Court for Phoenix, which owns the 527-strong multiple Rowlands Pharmacy.

It is expected to be operational in 2023, and will service hospitals, community pharmacies and dispensing doctors across the North East of England and Yorkshire.

Groundwork has already begun to prepare the Wakefield site for the 260,000 square foot facility, which will have 22 dock level loading bays and seven level access floors “to enable the productive arrival and distribution of medical products”.

Phoenix group managing director Steve Anderson said: “Over the last few years, we have seen an outstanding growth in customer demand for our core services outpacing the market.

“Wakefield is a prime example of how we are committed to investing in the future by expanding our UK-wide operational capabilities to offer all our customers across the country the best possible service they need, want and deserve.

“This follows our investment a few years ago in a new, much larger depot in Belfast to meet growing demand in Northern Ireland.”

Wakefield Council leader Denise Jeffrey said: “We are delighted to have this new centre in our district, providing much needed medical supplies to the NHS.

“It’s fantastic to see more investment being made in the Wakefield district and a welcome addition to the district’s fantastic business community.”