Kingsbridge has been granted planning consent for a development of new, highly sustainable business units in Hook which will create jobs by bringing a formerly derelict site back to life.

Hart District Council has approved plans for up to three best-in-class business units at the 2.6-acre site in Bartley Way. Kingsbridge plans to create one unit of 37,800 sq ft and two smaller units of 9,280 sq ft each.

The site was formerly the location of Europa House, an office building that had fallen into disrepair before being demolished shortly after Kingsbridge acquired the site from receivers in late 2023.

We are targeting the highest possible ‘Outstanding’ BREEAM rating – a nationally-recognised standard which measures the environmental impact of commercial buildings – and the highest possible EPC A+ energy performance rating.

Sustainability features include solar panels to provide green energy, electric vehicle charging points, bicycle parking, and a target of net zero embodied carbon for the development. The scheme is expected to provide a biodiversity net gain for the site in excess of the 10% required by the local authority.

Chris Fry, Chief Executive of Kingsbridge, said: “We are excited to reach this milestone in our plans for our site at Hook which can now be transformed from an underused, derelict property into a sustainable, quality employment centre which will bring real benefits for the local economy.”

“This scheme follows the model which we have established at Kingsbridge, meeting demand from employers across the south for quality workspace that delivers environmental improvements and contributes positively to local communities.”

Work is expected to begin on site at Bartley Way in the first quarter of 2025, with the scheme targeted to be ready for occupiers by the end of the year.