As we look ahead to 2025, Woking’s commercial property market, much like elsewhere, continues to be shaped by economic trends, sustainability targets, and shifting occupier demands.
With its excellent transport links, ongoing regeneration projects and a focus on energy-efficient buildings, Woking remains a key location for investors, landlords, and corporate occupiers.
But what can we expect for the year ahead? Charlie Nicholson, Vail Williams’ new Regional Managing Partner for the Surrey region, explores.
Energy efficiency and EPC compliance a significant driver for 2025
Energy efficiency will remain a significant driver in 2025.
With tightening legislation surrounding Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs), commercial property owners in Woking will face growing pressure to upgrade their buildings to meet minimum energy efficiency standards (MEES), as well as the demand from tenants for more energy efficient buildings.
By 2025, properties must achieve an EPC rating of at least ‘C’ to remain compliant with evolving regulations, with further minimum ‘B’ ratings expected in the near future.
Landlords with non-compliant properties risk losing rental income and their assets suffering from diminished property value. Therefore, retrofitting and sustainable refurbishments will be high on the agenda in Woking, and beyond, for 2025.
Key takeaway
Proactive landlords who invest in energy-efficient upgrades will attract eco-conscious occupiers and ensure future compliance.
Demand for flexible office space continues
Hybrid working continues to influence demand for flexible, modern office spaces. Businesses in Woking are seeking adaptable workplaces that support collaboration, employee well-being, and sustainability.
Developments like Victoria Place and refurbished office spaces in Woking’s business district are attracting SMEs and large corporations looking for prime locations outside of London, where they can benefit from the excellent transport links here.
Quality office stock with strong ESG credentials will therefore be highly sought-after in 2025, for occupiers and investors alike.
The new development at Forge is a proven concept in this regard, and has let quickly, acting as a best practice example of how to deliver something to market which meets occupier needs – with a good central area which displays well, and the energy efficient credentials to back it up.
Key takeaway
Offices offering flexible leases, modern amenities, and energy efficiency will thrive in Woking’s evolving market.
Office premises available to lease in Woking
In 2024, there was very little new development which came through in Woking.
Wrenbridge’s Woking One development, which sold to Woking Borough Council upon completion, has answered to some of the demand for high quality office space in the town.
Meanwhile, the Council’s investment at 1 Christchurch Way represents a good opportunity for businesses seeking to be based in the town centre, with the rare ability to offer car parking. The Grade A building provides 25,000 sq ft of self-contained office space at £36.50 psf, with an EPC Rating of B.
Duke’s Court, which has an EPC Rating of C, provides high quality office space with new facilities including restaurant and piazza, located close to the train station.
Midas House benefits from a prominent town centre location too, walking distance to the train station and with onsite parking. This building was recently refurbished and boasts an EPC Rating of B.
And Orion Gate is offering a unique opportunity to take 9,339 sq ft of refurbished space within a single floor occupancy, with parking and close proximity to Woking train station.
An evolving skyline: Infrastructure and regeneration
Woking’s skyline and infrastructure are evolving thanks to ongoing regeneration projects.
Victoria Place’s continued development and the enhancements made to local public spaces, have improved Woking’s reputation as a vibrant and connected town.
Investors and developers will keep a close eye on opportunities arising from the regeneration here, particularly in the retail, leisure, and residential sectors, because improved infrastructure will likely drive higher footfall and increase demand for commercial spaces in 2025.
Key takeaway
Regeneration will continue to bolster Woking’s appeal to investors and occupiers alike.
ESG-aligned offices will win-out in 2025
As businesses prioritise their ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) responsibilities, those more energy-efficient and high-quality commercial properties will continue to outperform more outdated stock in 2025.
Landlords will therefore need to invest in energy efficient solutions, particularly with future EPC targets and MEES regulations in mind.
Key takeaway
Occupiers will favour sustainable, modern commercial spaces that align with their ESG goals.
*Image copyright Victoria Place Woking.
