Since the Covid-19 Pandemic there has been a notable change within the office market including the rapid adoption of flexible working arrangements, leading many businesses to reconsider their office space needs. Hybrid working models, where employees split their time between the office and remote work, have now become the norm, prompting demand for adaptable office spaces that can accommodate varying occupancy levels.

Additionally, there has been a marked increase in interest for smaller, more efficient office layouts that prioritize collaboration and well-being. In Banbury, the demand for office space is still strong, driven by the town’s strategic location, excellent transport links, and a thriving local economy. Businesses are increasingly seeking modern office spaces that offer both functionality and accessibility, making offices in Banbury an attractive option.

The availability of serviced offices and business parks in the area caters to diverse needs, from start-ups to established firms. As the market evolves, Banbury stands out as a desirable destination for companies looking to rent office space in a vibrant and supportive business community.

London remains a hub for premium office space with high demand, especially in areas like the City and West End, but we are also seeing growing interest in flexible, co-working solutions in the wake of hybrid working models. Outside of London, regional markets like Birmingham and Milton Keynes are thriving, driven by businesses seeking more cost-effective alternatives to the capital. Coventry and Northampton have also become attractive for firms looking for well-connected, affordable spaces, while the Oxfordshire towns of Banbury and Abingdon benefit from their proximity to major transport routes and the wider tech and life sciences sectors.

Leamington Spa and Stratford Upon Avon continue to see solid demand, particularly in the creative and gaming industries. Across these locations, the trend leans toward high-quality, sustainable office spaces, with tenants increasingly prioritizing energy efficiency and well-being features. Despite ongoing economic uncertainty, demand for flexible, well-located office properties remains resilient.

The office property market in Oxfordshire, particularly along strategic corridors such as the A34 linking the M4 and South UK Ports and the M40, has experienced a good level of activity recently. The supply of office accommodation, however, remains constrained, with limited new developments and a significant portion of the existing stock consisting of older, refurbished spaces.

High-spec modern developments are predominantly found in Oxford, which has become a focal point for investment and occupational demand, especially in the life sciences sector.

At the end of FY 2020/21, there was 1,121,000 sqm of office floorspace across Oxfordshire accounting for 9% of the South East’s stock. The pie chart below breaks this down by local authority area. Oxford accounts for a third of office floorspace in the County and is the largest market. The stock in Cherwell is more modest (17%).

Despite the lack of new office developments, Banbury still offers a range of excellent office spaces to rent, particularly in and around the Oxfordshire OX16 postcode. With its strategic location and excellent transport links to the M40, the town is increasingly attractive for businesses looking to establish a presence in Oxfordshire along the Oxford and Banbury Roads. There are several high-quality buildings and business centres available in Banbury offering flexible office spaces suited to both startups and established businesses.

Whether you're seeking a modern, serviced office within a vibrant business hub within local business parks such as Cherwell Business Village or Banbury Office Village along the Southam Road or more traditional office space such as within the ‘business centre’ of Banbury on South Bar Street and North Bar, Banbury has plenty of options to meet diverse business needs.

A report by Savills shows that demand for serviced office space has risen by a staggering 173% since pre-Covid levels and enquiries are up 12%, year on year, leading to increased optimism from landlords regarding the long-term future of the serviced office sector.

Banbury and Bloxham offers an ideal solution for businesses seeking flexibility and convenience within the office sector. Both locations provide excellent access, with Banbury benefiting from its proximity to the M40 and strong rail links, while Bloxham offers a more tranquil, countryside setting, perfect for businesses seeking a quieter environment.

The serviced offices within these areas, including Bloxham Mill on the Barford Road, Tapper Spaces close to the M40 and Point of Difference which have a variety of office workspaces across the town are housed in well-maintained buildings, equipped with high-quality facilities, including modern desks, high-speed internet, meeting rooms, kitchens and breakout areas which allow for networking.

With a variety of sized spaces including small office suites and larger rooms and some with 24 hour access and ample on-site parking is a key advantage, ensuring hassle-free access for employees and clients alike. Whether you’re a growing business or an established firm, these serviced spaces provide everything needed to operate efficiently without long-term commitments.

Out-of-town office business parks, such as Banbury Business Park in Adderbury, present a highly attractive option for businesses seeking well-connected, modern commercial property without the higher costs of city-centre locations.

Banbury Business Park offers a range of high-quality office buildings designed to accommodate businesses of varying sizes, with flexible layouts and modern facilities. Its strategic location near Banbury provides easy access to the M40, making it a convenient choice for regional and national companies alike. Business parks like this offer the benefit of ample parking, landscaped surroundings, and a more peaceful working environment, ideal for companies that value a blend of accessibility and comfort.

White Commercial are currently marketing Pembroke House which comprises flexible Grade A ground floor office accommodation up to 16,514 sq ft which has recently been comprehensively refurbished and a variety of smaller units at Somerville Court both to rent or for sale.

Heyford Park in Oxfordshire also has a number of offices available, set in a strategic location in central Oxfordshire, a former USAF 1,230-acre air force base, is being developed by The Dorchester Group into a new thriving town and community. 

The UK office market and retail sector are increasingly interconnected, especially in areas like Banbury, where developments such as Banbury Gateway at Brookhill Way bridge the gap between office spaces and retail hubs. As a major commercial centre, Banbury Gateway draws both office workers and shoppers with its mix of shops and services and close proximity to warehouse space on the industrial estates close to the M40 motorway.

This proximity to high street retail and shopping centres enhances the appeal of nearby office spaces, as businesses benefit from convenient access to retail amenities, driving footfall and economic activity. The synergy between office environments and retail spaces in such locations supports a vibrant local economy, making it attractive for both sectors to thrive.