Star Refrigeration has completed the second phase of an ammonia refrigeration expansion at NewCold’s high bay warehouse in Corby, Northamptonshire, doubling the site’s cooling capacity to support growing demand.
The project added 2,000 kW of cooling capacity for the high bay and 750 kW for the low bay, enabling storage for an additional 75,000 pallets. The facility now has a total capacity of 150,000 pallet spaces, with storage temperatures maintained at -22 °C. The expansion is part of a broader three-phase development of the fully automated warehouse, NewCold’s second site in the UK.
NewCold selected Star Refrigeration for its experience in ammonia refrigeration for automated cold stores. Star has worked on high bay warehouses since 1996 and currently services six such facilities across the UK.
The upgrade was completed while the site remained fully operational. The project team optimised valve station and electrical panel placement to reduce time spent in low-temperature environments. Ammonia pipework and drainage systems were prefabricated off-site to simplify installation and avoid welding at height within the steel structure.
NewCold Managing Director UK Richard Russell said, “The success of Phase 2 hinged on close collaboration, and Star Refrigeration brought deep technical expertise and a practical, safety-first mindset to the table.”
Phase 3 of the expansion is now underway and includes the installation of a standalone ammonia pump system for a new cold store under construction. Star Refrigeration’s Derby branch will continue providing maintenance and technical services, supported by a team of 16 ammonia-qualified field engineers.