Delivering a net zero carbon office in Edinburgh for Aviva Investors

As part of RICS’ commitment to sustainability, we are showcasing where firms are innovating to address the issues of climate change. The contents of this article to do not constitute an endorsement of their service, but are intended to be used as ideas for how surveyors can tackle issues such as climate change with the work they do. For other case studies please visit rics.org/sustainability.

JLL were appointed by Aviva Investors to provide development agency advice and project manage the redevelopment of Rosebery House, Edinburgh, a 60,000 sq. ft building that is no longer fit for purpose.

JLL’s project management and agency teams offered their expert insight to ensure the design of an energy-efficient building, meeting the requirements of modern businesses, addressing Environmental, Social and Governance targets, and delivering a financially viable scheme.

Commitment to net zero

The agency team assisted in the creation of a feasibility study, identifying financial viability and projected demand for a more sustainable office development, optimising the building’s strategic location beside Edinburgh’s Haymarket transportation hub.

Working with Aviva Investors, JLL factored the commitment to net zero carbon into each aspect of the project, by designing a fully electric building and implementing renewable energy to displace fossil fuel emissions.

What next?

Careful demolition of the current office block will begin, during which carbon emissions will be reduced as much as is possible.

The current proposal is that the existing block will be replaced with a highly efficient 158,000 sq. ft Grade A office space designed to meet current and future needs and lead the UK market in terms of specification.

Building optimisation and thermal modelling have been integrated to achieve enhanced building performance and reduce overall energy consumption. This includes placing fins onto glazing (to protect against overheating and reduce cooling demand), green roof space, rainwater harvesting, electrical car recharging points and increasing cycle space.

Read more about what RICS is doing during COP26, and beyond on rics.org/sustainability and more on JLL’s work on sustainability leadership.