The development and occupation of sustainable business parks have seen a significant rise in recent years – and for good reason. Closely linked to the predicted 13% annual increase in corporate sustainability spending between 2025 and 2030, businesses across the UK are turning to more practical, environmentally friendly workplaces to meet regulatory demands and satisfy investor expectations.
A sustainable workplace is rapidly becoming a necessity for the future of business. Sustainable business parks offer a range of benefits that individual offices simply can’t match – from shared resources and lower running costs to greener surroundings that boost employee wellbeing.
Government incentives, net zero targets and global climate goals are driving the rapid growth of sustainable business parks.
As environmental regulations tighten and energy efficiency standards rise, many smaller businesses are struggling to keep up. But those located within a sustainable business park benefit from built-in compliance, easing financial and operational pressures while offering a lower-risk path to meeting ESG goals.
With investors and stakeholders now prioritising sustainability, businesses operating from BREEAM-rated properties or similarly accredited spaces are becoming increasingly attractive investment prospects.
Let’s explore successful examples that play home to a range of innovative companies:
The south west’s centre of activity for businesses involved in the STEMM sector (science, technology, engineering, maths and medicine), Exeter Science Park offers co-working space, state-of-the-art offices, laboratories and bespoke buildings.
With a mission to grow a community of like-minded businesses, the park has 100,000 square feet of quality office and lab space within six high-spec buildings. Close to the thriving city of Exeter, the park is just off Junction 29 of the M5 and five miles from the area’s mainline railway station. The park counts some of the region’s top innovators among the companies based there.
Another well-connected business location, Farnborough Business Park in Hampshire is just 40 miles from London, close to the M3 and a mile from the nearest train station. Sustainability features include solar power and composting, waste and recycling programmes.
Featuring landscaped green spaces, several amenities and sustainable power, Farnborough was the first business park in the world to achieve a maximum 3* Fitwel certification – the highest global healthy building standard.
From renewable energy systems and high EPC ratings that reduce utility bills, to smart travel connections and a collaborative ethos, sustainable business parks deliver practical, financial and reputational advantages.
Here are seven key reasons why they’re a smart investment:
Locating your business within a respected sustainable business park enhances professional credibility with investors, partners and the wider community. It demonstrates a genuine commitment to ESG values – offering a competitive edge and attracting eco-conscious customers and clients.
Shared spaces also foster collaboration, helping businesses connect with neighbouring organisations and build partnerships that might not have formed elsewhere.
Sustainable business parks are designed for efficiency and to reduce the administrative burden, while prime locations provide easy access to transport links and logistics routes.
For example, Bicester Arc sits within the Oxford-Cambridge corridor, offering superb connectivity by road and rail. This not only supports smoother business operations but also helps employees reduce their carbon footprint through accessible public transport options.
Being part of a certified sustainable development also simplifies environmental reporting and compliance, providing tangible proof of sustainability to investors.
Offering more than 600,000 sq ft of flexible commercial and office space, Bicester Arc will feature buildings designed and built to achieve a BREEAM ‘Excellent’ rating and EPC ‘A’.
Modern employees increasingly prioritise sustainability, convenience and wellbeing when choosing where to work. Features such as contemporary offices, easy commutes, open green spaces and ample parking are now essential rather than optional.
For many candidates, especially millennials and Gen Zs, a company’s environmental values can be the deciding factor in accepting a job offer. In the case of Bicester Arc, a planned new eco park aims to provide lots of green spaces for employees to take time out and relax.
Energy-efficient building designs and renewable power sources contribute to lower running costs. With utility bills continuing to rise, the ability to significantly reduce overheads makes sustainable business parks a sound long-term investment – particularly compared to the high costs of retrofitting older office spaces.
Businesses on sustainable business parks can access amenities such as high-speed internet, dedicated power infrastructure, security and maintenance – without the need for large upfront investments.
This model is particularly beneficial for SMEs, allowing them to operate in premium, future-ready facilities while keeping costs manageable. At Bicester Arc, a dedicated 13.7 MVA primary substation offers reliable, scalable power that is available solely for the use of occupants.
With modern office premises no longer relying on fossil fuels in the building process, the opportunity to embrace renewable energy options enhances business resilience against climate risks and fluctuating energy prices. By operating within an environment that prioritises sustainability, businesses gain greater protection from supply chain disruptions and resource scarcity, ensuring more stable, predictable operations.
Access to nature has been proven to reduce stress and boost mental health. Sustainable business parks with green spaces provide employees with areas to relax and recharge, leading to higher job satisfaction, productivity and overall wellbeing.
Environments inspired by nature – like the 15-acre eco park being planned for Bicester Arc – help create a workplace culture that supports both people and the planet.
If you’re exploring opportunities within a sustainable business park and want to learn more about what Bicester Arc can offer, our team would love to hear from you. The site provides a ‘blank canvas’ for occupiers to create their own bespoke building featuring the sustainability measures that matter to them.
Contact us today to find out how your business can thrive in a greener, smarter and more connected environment.
