Global engineering and consultancy firm, Arup, has confirmed it will take the entire 27,377 sq ft second floor of CEG’s EQ development at 111 Victoria Street, Bristol on a ten-year lease.
Attracted by the location, flexibility and wellbeing credentials of the building, Arup was also impressed by CEG’s Let Ready studio concept, which will provide fully equipped studio space on flexible leases for additional project work.
Austin Smith, Arup’s Bristol Office Leader, said: “Our decision to move to EQ underlines our commitment to Bristol city centre, which has been our home in the South West for more than 45 years. EQ’s balance of public, private, and shared spaces, along with the capacity to bring all our people together on a single floor, complements our creative, collaborative, and flexible approach to our work.
“It was important that our new home’s location and facilities continue to enable our staff to have the option to walk, cycle or use public transport to travel to the office. Investing in additional cycle parking capacity and remaining in Redcliffe means that our staff can continue to commute sustainably.”
EQ has been specifically designed to raise the bar in terms of occupant wellbeing, with an extensive 20,000 sq ft of amenities ranging from a rooftop bar, restaurant and business lounge with communal terrace, ground floor café kitchen, 50 seat auditorium, to a fitness suite and break out collaborative space.
When construction on the 200,000 sq ft development began a year ago, it was the largest speculative development underway in the south of England. Since then, it has also secured the accolade of being Bristol’s first new build office to target Carbon Net Zero in Operation in accordance with the UK Green Building Council’s (UKGBC) framework approach.
Designed to meet BREEAM Outstanding and EPC A, EQ will be powered by renewable energy, sourced through a Renewable Energy Guarantee of Origin (REGO) contract. There will be an array of photovoltaic units on the roof, as well as connection to Bristol City Council’s District Heating Network. Some 2,000 litres of water per occupant will be saved each year through the building’s rainwater recycling features. With efficient heating, cooling and lighting systems, the design approach reduces the amount of energy the building needs.
The dedicated bicycle entrance and ramp from Temple Street to the basement provides easy access to more than 260 cycle spaces, as well as electric e-bike charging points and health club quality changing and shower facilities.
Aligned with the UKGBC’s framework, CEG has prioritised reductions in energy demand and consumption and is maximising opportunities for low carbon and renewable energy. Energy consumption and related emissions will be calculated and offset with results published to ensure the carbon net zero in operation targets are met, helping to encourage occupants to better understand and embrace this sustainable approach.
Designed as a Smart Tech enabled building, there will also be fewer touch points and air quality sensors. Bristol’s EQ building was also the first building in the world to achieve SmartScore certification, achieving SmartScore Gold for its technology and connectivity.
Paul Richardson, investment manager at CEG, explains: “EQ rethinks contemporary office design. Our low carbon approach is embedded in everything we do, from the design and operation to the health and wellbeing of those who will work here. Arup’s decision to locate its West of England office here is testament to the quality and sustainability credentials of this flagship building.”
JLL and Cushman & Wakefield have been appointed by CEG to market the building.
Ian Wills, director of office agency at JLL, said: “Securing a high-profile occupier is the best proof of concept for EQ. We are delighted Arup has chosen EQ.”
Steve Lane, partner office leasing at Cushman & Wakefield said: “Despite challenging circumstances, the quality and amenity being delivered at EQ highlights the resilience of well-designed offices taking account of occupiers current and changing ways of working. Securing Arup is testament to this.”
