Workplace Strategy - BBC Media City

Delivering lead client side workplace and real estate services for this flagship BBC project

The team, led by David George, were commissioned to develop the client’s strategic property brief for the relocation of 1,600 jobs from London and 800 jobs from Manchester. 

Working within the BBC’s property team David challenged the initial “lift and shift” approach. The original business case identified a need for 80,000sqm for a range of space types (approximately a 60/40 split between office accommodation & technical areas). By challenging existing assumptions and working with technology specialists the project established that by applying best activity based settings and occupation densities plus the opportunity to outsource the large studio facilities, this led to a reduction of the accommodation to 30,000 sqm, resulting in massive capital and operating savings for the BBC. 

The workspace is designed for flexibility, adapting to changing work styles as continuing innovation in digital technology impacts on the program making process. It is predominantly standard office accommodation but with resilient infrastructure and designed to promote creativity, innovation and collaborative working, a space which will attract and retain staff.