Planning permission granted to bring forward South Shields net zero offices

Planning permission has been granted for an urban regenerator to bring forward a new sustainable office building in South Shields.

South Tyneside Council’s planning committee has announced that it has given approval to Muse Developments for the construction of The Glassworks, a new 50,000 sq ft office building in South Shields which is designed to be environmentally friendly.

The building will be fossil fuel free, ultra low energy and is set to achieve the UK Green Building Council’s 2025 net zero office energy performance target.

Designed by Ryder Architecture, the offices will run entirely on renewable electricity, supported by a 3,200 sq ft solar array on the roof.

Andrew Fairest, projects director at Muse Developments, said: “To receive the news that we’ve been given approval to bring forward our latest sustainable development at The Glassworks, represents a strong endorsement of our commitment to building back better in South Tyneside and the work we’ve done to date in the town.

“Despite the challenging times we’re in, we’re still seeing a demand for high-quality office space that not only provides an agile and positive environment to work from, but is also climate resilient and adaptable to our changing world.

“At Muse, we’re committed to working with partners in a bid to deliver a tangible and meaningful contribution to reducing the sector’s carbon footprint, while driving inward investment, opportunities and prosperity right into the heart of our communities.”

George Mansbridge, corporate director of regeneration and environment at South Tyneside Council, said: “The design and construction processes will result in almost a third less carbon, which is the equivalent of planting four hectares of young woodland forest.

“Operational energy will be significantly reduced with highly efficient heating, lighting and ventilation systems.

“The building will also have the ability to connect to a future renewable district heating network in the town.”

John Alker, director of policy and places at the UK Green Building Council (UKGBC), said: “It’s great to see this ambitious project pass this crucial milestone. Going for net zero carbon in its operation, with a stringent energy-performance target is absolutely the right approach, and ensures the building is fit for the future.

“It’s also encouraging to see the plans for significant reductions in embodied carbon through innovative product and material selection. It demonstrates fantastic leadership from Muse and the whole team.”

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