Socially responsible office development has landed in Coventry.

The net-zero ready, six-storey, 90K SF Bourn building at Manor House Drive has been transformed by Solihull based IM Properties. The developers said the £9M refurbishment is meant to encourage socially responsible behaviour by occupiers.

The move is an explicit admission by the landlord that what its tenants do is, in part, the landlord’s responsibility.

"We’ve repurposed an existing building into a best-in-class office which will be proactively asset managed to help encourage more sustainable behaviours which are compatible with the future of the planet," IM Properties asset director Rob Hemus said.

“Ensuring the long-term sustainability of buildings is crucial and as a member of Better Buildings Partnership, it aligns with our climate commitment to improve existing stock and help reduce carbon emissions as we head towards net zero in 2030.”

A dedicated, high-speed, dual entry fibre ethernet infrastructure WiFi system has been installed, which will help future-proof businesses in an increasingly digital business environment.

“IMP’s approach enables occupiers to both share in and make their own mark in setting out their priorities for sustainability, wellbeing and community,” said Colliers Director Rachael Lacy, whose firm is managing the building.

Bourn includes the use of photovoltaic panels, achievement of an EPC A rating, BREEAM Very Good and conversion from gas to run on an all-electric M&E system, using 100% renewably sourced energy. The building also promotes and aims to encourage sustainable travel through 16 electric vehicle car charging points and the capacity to increase to 48 in the future as well as a dedicated cycle hub with its own secure entrance.