Permission has been granted for the next 262,000 sq ft of The Future Works office development in Slough.

Nos 1 and 3 The Future Works by AshbyCapital and U+I, was granted by Slough Borough Council’s planning committee on March 10. The buildings offer 170,000 sq ft and 92,000 sq ft respectively and will sit either side of the existing 100,000 sq ft No 2. No 1 will have three retail units.

The developer is seeking pre-lets through JLL and Cushman & Wakefield for the Sheppard Robson-designed scheme. Lichfields was the planning consultant. The new buildings have been redesigned from the original scheme so that each has its own identity.

The Future Works aims to be among the most sustainable and technologically-advanced developments in the Thames Valley and a BREEAM Excellent rating is envisaged for the new office space.

Several environmental features at the all-electric development include integrated solar PV panels, electric vehicle charging and rainwater harvesting.

The developer also seeks high wellness and tech credentials including a WELL Ready rating for wellbeing and WiredScore Platinum rating for connectivity and digital infrastructure.

The new buildings will have several landscaped roof terraces which will have Wi-Fi and will include a kitchen garden and a yoga lawn. There will be on-site gyms, bicycle parking and changing areas.

New public realm will also be created including an outdoor auditorium, botanical pavilion, new seating and landscaping.

Peter Ferrari, chief executive of AshbyCapital, said: “With one building completed to an exceptional standard, part let, and with strong interest in the remaining space, we’re excited to get the next phase of this major regeneration project under way.

“Covid-19 has accelerated some trends we were already seeing in the office market – increased flexibility, more widespread use of technology and a greater focus on collaboration, wellness and community.

“No 1 and No 3 The Future Works will be best-in-class examples of innovative, future-proofed office buildings that facilitate collaboration and prioritise the health and wellbeing of their occupants, perfectly suiting the evolving demands of occupiers.

“As interest grows in high-quality, well-connected workspaces outside of major city centres, the new phases of The Future Works are ideally placed to capitalise on this demand.”

Paul Patenall, project director for U+I, said: “Slough already has the highest concentration of global headquarters outside London and multiple titles for being a great place to live and work.

“With the Elizabeth Line and a number of other major regeneration projects under way, the future is bright for Slough. As we all look forward to returning to our town centres and offices, we’re excited to re-affirm our confidence in Slough and breathe renewed life into the heart of this increasingly vibrant town.”

No 2 The Future Works recently became the first building in the UK to receive an AirScore Platinum rating for its indoor air quality.

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