Work is steaming ahead on a major refurbishment project to deliver one of Plymouth’s most energy-efficient office schemes.
The Merchant, a bold example of post-industrial architecture and one of the city’s landmark buildings, is expected to be completed in early 2018, providing 32,000 sq ft of open plan, modern office space of the highest specification.
The building, formerly known as St Andrew’s Court, based in Notte Street, is set to have a rare rating of A on its Energy Performance Certificate (EPC), meaning it will be the most energy-efficient refurbished office building in the city and one of just a few offices overall – including new schemes – that meet this standard.
It has been renamed The Merchant to reflect its proximity to the historic Merchant’s House, one of Plymouth’s major tourist attractions.
From April 2018, new regulations will come into force requiring landlords to ensure that residential or commercial properties they rent out in England and Wales have a minimum energy performance rating of E.
JLL, Stratton Creber Commercial and Vickery Holman are marketing the scheme for let.
Andrew Pearce, director at JLL in Exeter, said: “This major £4 million scheme will set a new benchmark in Plymouth for sustainable office refurbishments. It offers the opportunity for businesses to secure a high quality workspace in a prime location and with an important emphasis on employee well-being and sustainability at the heart of its design.”
“It is vital that landlords are prepared for the EPC regulation changes that will soon be taking effect and that others follow suit in making sustainability a top priority.”
The Merchant will have a collaborative communal area, overlooking a landscaped courtyard, as well as a bright, stylish reception area. It will open onto Notte Street, with a new piazza providing convenient access to the historic Barbican and city centre. The scheme also benefits from a stunning penthouse space for meetings with panoramic views.
Other key features of the building include highly efficient air conditioning that responds to the changing office environment, floating LED light panels, generous use of glazing to maximise natural light, secure car parking and bike storage.
The refurbishment is being led by the multi award-winning Developing London Group.
