WORK has officially started on Extra MSA Group’s latest development, Warrington Motorway Service Area (MSA) at Junction 11 of the M62, marking a major milestone for both the project and the region.
Following the appointment of Glencar and Bethell in November 2025, the site is now full of activity. Bethell Construction has launched a comprehensive programme of highway improvement works at Junction 11, designed to improve access and strengthen connectivity with the local community and wider region.
In parallel, Glencar has begun delivering the main amenity building and supporting infrastructure, following an initial phase of groundworks. This first phase of work will also include the diversion of Silver Lane Brook and the creation of a new peatland habitat zone, together with wider landscaping and site circulation infrastructure.
The new motorway service station on Green Belt land next to the M62 near Birchwood, Warrington, sparked controversy locally and was refused by local planners but approved on appeal by a government planning inspector.
The decision came as “no big surprise” to local Cllrs. who opposed the application which includes a 100-bed hotel, fuel filling station, electric charging station and facilities building put forward by Extra MSA, after Warrington Borough Council decided not to defend the planning committee decision to refuse the application.
When complete in late 2027, Warrington MSA will provide a modern, high-quality motorway service area. The development will feature a diverse mix of premium food, beverage, and retail outlets, alongside landscaped spaces designed for leisure and community engagement.
Once completed, Warrington MSA will provide parking for all vehicle types. In addition, the site will offer extensive EV charging facilities to support local industry and accelerate the transition to a low-carbon transport network.
For all involved in the project, building strong community connections is essential, both during construction and beyond. Extra MSA Group, Glencar, and Bethell Construction are committed to ensuring this project leaves a positive legacy for Warrington. A targeted social value programme will create measurable opportunities for local people and businesses, including:
• New full-time roles and a wider commitment to meeting local workforce targets.
• A commitment to working with Warrington-based SMEs and suppliers.
• Wider training through T-Levels, apprenticeships, and upskilling initiatives with local education providers.
• Partnerships with local education providers to provide school sessions, STEM activities, and site visits.
The team will also work with Ahead Partnership to deliver a wider schools engagement programme, along with working closely with local charities and community groups in the area.
Tom Dobson, CEO of Extra MSA Group said: “Breaking ground at Warrington MSA marks an exciting step forward for Extra MSA Group and the local community.
This development is about more than creating a modern service area – it’s about delivering long-term economic benefits, supporting sustainable transport, and building strong partnerships that make a positive impact well beyond the construction phase.
We are really excited that construction on the site has begun and keen to update the local community as the construction progresses.”
Tom Kearsley, North Regional Director at Glencar said: “Reaching the construction phase at Warrington Services is an important milestone and one where progress on site becomes visible for the local community. Following a detailed period of pre-construction and enabling works, it’s positive to see activity increasing and the project moving forward.
We’re working closely with Extra and the wider project team to deliver a development that supports the local economy, creates employment and skills opportunities, and provides high-quality facilities for road users. Our focus throughout construction will be on responsible delivery and ensuring the scheme leaves a positive and lasting legacy for Warrington and the surrounding area.”
Warrington MSA is scheduled to open in Autumn 2027.
To learn more about the project, visit: https://www.warringtonservices.co.uk.
For more information on Extra MSA, visit: www.extraservices.co.uk
