New opportunities are emerging in the Reading commercial property market thanks to a lack of Grade A office space, delegates heard at the latest Reading Social.
Speaking in a panel discussion at the February 12 lunchtime event at Apex Reading, chaired by UK Property Forums managing director Matthew Battle, Rob Marson, agency director for Campbell Gordon, said despite the apparent malaise in the market, the need for the highest quality space will become more apparent as ONE Station Hill fills up.
He reported high office take up in 2026 and said he is encouraged by the arrival of new occupiers to the town, such as from Oxford, Windsor and London.
Further opportunities for secondary offices
Andy Jansons, managing director of Jansons Property, said he can see opportunities in the conversion of Grade B offices into residential using Permitted Development and redevelopment of secondary stock for industrial buildings.
Jansons Property is currently redeveloping the former Dell offices in Bracknell into an industrial and logistics scheme.
A warning over BTR schemes
From the residential sector Dan Channer, managing director of Haslams Estate Agents, noted the healthy market for Build to Rent (BTR) in Reading.
However, he warned that if all the current planning applications for new flats in Reading were approved, there would be an oversupply. Haslams reported a positive 2025, despite the changing market conditions.
Mark Pearson, head of economic development for REDA, pointed to healthy demand for space life science, tech and defence occupiers in Reading.
Matthew Battle said afterwards: “This was a most enlightening session. The changing economy and various national and international uncertainties make can give a negative impression of the immediate future but our panellists were able to demonstrate that, even in challenging circumstances, opportunities arise.
“Our thanks to the team at Legal & General (Apex Reading landlord) for their assistance with the event.”
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