A recent report from Carter Jonas has shed light on a concerning reality for UK office spaces. It reveals that only a mere 8.3% of office spaces in the UK are expected to meet the new environmental standards that will be enforced in 2030. With the clock ticking, owners need to take action.
The findings also revealed that 55% of the UK’s office stock is over 30 years old, hinting at the urgent need for modernisation and energy-efficient upgrades.
The Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) regulations, which became effective on 1 April, prohibit letting properties with an EPC rating below ‘E’. The government’s intention to raise this minimum to ‘C’ by April 2027 and ‘B’ by 2030 poses significant challenges for property owners.
The report analysed 12 major UK cities, including Birmingham, Bristol, London, Manchester, and more, uncovering regional disparities in office quality and sustainability.
Cities like Cardiff and Manchester seem to be ahead of the curve, with a substantial number of offices meeting the ‘C’ to ‘A’ bands. In contrast, others like Glasgow and Edinburgh face a significant number of offices in bands’ G’ to ‘D’, calling for immediate attention.
Scott Harkness, head of commercial at Carter Jonas, emphasised the importance of providing sustainable and attractive work environments to recruit and retain talent while promoting employee well-being. The competitive labour market demands greener and more vibrant office spaces, making it crucial for local authorities, landlords, and investors to collaborate on targeted sustainability strategies.
As the statistics paint a concerning picture, it’s time to act collectively. Owners must embrace green building practices, prioritise energy-efficient renovations, and invest in sustainable infrastructure.
The challenge of meeting MEES is an opportunity for a greener and more eco-conscious future for UK offices, creating a workplace environment that benefits our planet and enhances our workforce’s productivity and well-being.
About Pexhurst
Pexhurst is an award-winning fit-out and refurbishment contractor. Established in 1977, Pexhurst has progressed from providing simple office fit-outs to delivering large-scale refurbishment projects for a range of commercial, industrial and private sector clients.
Pexhurst has established a strong reputation for its workmanship quality, helping transform spaces throughout London, the Midlands, and the South of England. For more information, please visit www.pexhurst.co.uk.
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