Self storage operator expands with Bristol site

A self storage operator is expanding with a second development after securing planning permission for a new 200-unit facility in Bristol.

Cactus Self Storage, wholly owned by Martin’s Properties, has been given the green light for a two-storey, 23,395sq ft development at Lime Kiln Close, close to Bristol Parkway station.

The facility will provide units ranging from 25sq ft to 300sq ft, with drive-up, drive-in and traditional self-storage options.

Designed with sustainability in mind, the development will feature solar panels, electric vehicle charging points and cycle stands, alongside a mix of internal and external storage units.

Cactus launched in 2026 with ambitions to provide modern, purpose-built storage facilities featuring technology-enabled access.

Construction is already underway on its first development in Didcot, a 300-unit facility scheduled for completion in early 2027, with the Bristol site expected to become operational around the same time.

The new facility will sit within an established commercial area five minutes’ walk from Bristol Parkway, close to Aldi, Premier Inn, Sainsbury’s and a retail park.

Further development nearby includes a 330-bed student accommodation scheme and around 1400 new homes planned within half a mile.

Graham Gunn, head of operations – self storage at Martin’s Properties, said: “We are excited to bring forward this high-class new self-storage facility on such a prominent site in a mature and expanding location – with excellent transport links and passing traffic – which will cater for a large customer base. 

“Our tech-driven, secure, easy-to-access, sustainable units will offer both the local consumer and business community (and the market itself) something different in this fast-growing sector.”

Cactus is now seeking further one to two-acre development sites across southern England as it continues its expansion.

Target locations include Bath, Dorchester, Southampton, Taunton, Aylesbury, Banbury, Trowbridge and Yeovil.

Richard Bourne, chief executive at Martin’s Properties, which has assets worth approximately £400 million, spanning investment, development and asset management, added: “We have identified self-storage as a strong growth sector with strong fundamentals. 

“This has been accelerated by changing consumer trends such as home working, divorce, upsizing and downsizing, growth In small businesses and a reduction in room size per capita for new build housing. 

“Therefore, we are thrilled to have secured planning for our second scheme which will cater for a wide customer base including both consumers and businesses. 

“With an increasing demand for easily accessible, safe and secure, self storage, we are continuing our acquisition programme for further sites in the South and South West of England and have a number of opportunities on the table which we hope to unveil soon.”

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