Government Property Agency to Close London Office, Aiming for Significant Savings
The Government Property Agency (GPA) is poised to generate additional annual savings of £8.8 million following the recent cessation of operations at a Civil Service office located at 10 Victoria Street in London. The complete departure of staff from the premises marks a further step in the government’s strategy to streamline its office estate in the capital.
Closure Details
As of Thursday, November 27, employees previously stationed at 10 Victoria Street have officially moved to various other locations across London, including 100 Parliament Street and 26 Whitehall. This closure represents the third workspace to be shuttered under the government’s Plan for London, affecting approximately 1,000 personnel from multiple Civil Service departments, notably the Cabinet Office.
The GPA is tasked with overseeing the closure process, which includes clearing the site of all furniture and equipment before reverting the property to its landlord in February 2026.
Statements from the GPA
Sean Webb, the Plan for London Programme Manager at the GPA, commented on the significance of this transition. He stated, “The Civil Service exit from 10 Victoria Street is a significant milestone for the GPA and the Plan for London. We aimed to ensure that all affected staff were well-informed and supported during their relocation, promoting a seamless transition within our office portfolio.”
Previous Office Closures and Future Plans
In an earlier move this September, the GPA reported annual savings of £8.7 million following the closure of both The Rookery and Clive House, which also contributed to the transfer of around 1,500 civil servants to other office spaces. The overarching Plan for London, launched in May, aims to consolidate the Civil Service’s office presence by shutting down at least 11 buildings by 2030, with an anticipated total annual savings of £94 million. Notable closures under this plan include 102 Petty France, Caxton House, and 39 Victoria Street.
Importance of the Plan for London
This initiative signifies a broader effort to enhance efficiency within the Civil Service while also addressing governmental priorities in fiscal management. By reducing physical office space, the government seeks to adapt to an evolving work landscape, particularly in the wake of increased flexibility demands post-pandemic.
Source: official statements, news agencies, and public reports.
https://www.gov.uk/government/news/civil-servants-exit-another-office-space-under-94m-programme
