Evolve community grows as underwater technology leader maps out future with Melton West expansion

A leading underwater technology business is expanding its operations in East Yorkshire after securing new premises at the fast-growing Melton West business park.

Neptune Sonar is set to move into the largest unit at Evolve @ Melton West, which has been developed by commercial property developer Wykeland Group.

Neptune Sonar is a global leader in advanced underwater acoustic technology. The company designs and manufactures products for applications across the maritime technology space, including bespoke sonar transducers – sensor devices that send pulses of sound through water to map out sea depth, underwater objects and fish movements.

Neptune Sonar is part of the OceanSight group of companies delivering high-resolution subsea intelligence globally. Neptune Sonar’s technologies serve as critical components for applications such as underwater tracking and marine communication systems, and are supplied to leading ocean technology organisations worldwide.

The company has its headquarters on the banks of Kelk Lake, near Driffield, and the move to Evolve will enable it to consolidate three of its existing sites while positioning the business to expand further.  

Neptune Sonar plans to use the 38,000 sq ft unit at Evolve as a manufacturing facility, distribution centre and storage space, which will be operational later this year.

David Bradley, Managing Director of Neptune Sonar, said: “This investment marks an exciting milestone for Neptune Sonar and reflects OceanSight’s confidence in our business, our people and our future. 

“Since joining OceanSight, we've gained a partner that is accelerating our growth through strategic investment, commercial expertise, global market access, and enhanced operational expertise. 

“This new facility at Evolve provides the foundation to expand our manufacturing capabilities, drive continued innovation, and better serve customers worldwide.”

Neptune Sonar joins existing occupier Medequip, the UK’s leading provider of community equipment loan services, at Evolve, as well as Revive Auto Repairs, which occupies one of the smaller units on the site. 

Interest in the remaining terrace units at Evolve is high, with spaces available to let as four 5,000 sq ft units or in multiples to create a larger space.  

Evolve offers attractive, modern workspaces and excellent transport links, as well as outstanding sustainability credentials, with all units EPC A-rated and having rooftop solar panels, green living walls and electric vehicle charging infrastructure.

Wykeland’s Head of Business Space, Liam Knaggs, said: “We’re delighted to welcome Neptune Sonar to the growing community at Evolve, and to have secured another ambitious, innovative business at Melton West.

“We delivered Evolve speculatively, reflecting both our confidence that there was an unmet demand from growing businesses looking for modern, high-spec facilities, and our commitment to stimulating investment and growth in the region.

“This has been confirmed by the high levels of interest we’ve seen at the development. We look forward to seeing Neptune Sonar grow with us at Melton West.”

The remaining units at Evolve cater for a broad range of businesses and uses, including industrial, manufacturing and distribution, and are also well suited for trade counter use.

The units allow in high levels of natural light, thanks to translucent roof panels, creating bright and attractive workspaces and reducing the length of time when artificial lighting is required. They also have a dedicated parking area, with 7kw EV charging and a bike store.

The development of Evolve was supported by grant funding from East Riding of Yorkshire Council, to support economic growth in the region.