Helical boss Gerald Kaye believes “sentiment has moved away from WFH” as the landlord welcomes occupiers back to its buildings.
In a trading update released today, ahead of Helical’s half year results next month, Kaye said: “It is encouraging to see people returning to central London for both work and pleasure,” adding that this was “reflected in the increased occupancy of our buildings, success in new lettings and a high level of rent collection”.
Helical has so far collected 92.9% of September’s rent, with a further 4.2% coming via payment plans.
“Sentiment has moved away from WFH as companies appreciate the importance of the office in motivating teams, as well as working collaboratively and with far greater effectiveness,” Kaye said.
The developer has recently topped out at its 33 Charterhouse Street, EC1, office, with completion expected next September.
Kaye added that while the best-in-class sustainable offices are in strong demand and are achieving a “green” rental premium, the increasing amount of obsolete older space “will provide us with the raw material to redevelop or refurbish” to create new sustainable spaces.
See also: The EG Interview: Gerald Kaye on bringing London back to life
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