Originally announced back in early 2023, plans for CIBSE’s relocation to a central London office are steadily progressing. The move signifies CIBSE’s commitment to progression, adaptability, and the continuous improvement of service.
Chief Executive Ruth Carter says;
“CIBSE needs a head office that is modern, highly functional, easily accessible for our members and our staff, and most importantly - lives our CIBSE standards”.
The Institution’s Premises Advisory Committee (PAC) is assessing potential new locations. To help ensure an efficient and timely process, project manager Rebecca Drinkwater has been appointed.
See the members and structure for the PAC below:
PAC is made up of senior Trustees, and key members of the Executive and is chaired by past CIBSE Vice President, Paddy Conaghan. PAC has delegated authority from the Board to make decisions and utilise both Trustees and staff to do so. The Board maintain final sign off on all key decisions.
The role of the Sub-Groups is to lead on their stream, set the specific workflows, investigate, assess, review, and then recommend to PAC. Additionally, to lead the timely and proactive management of the individuals in the Sub-Group to ensure that activities stay on track and within scope.
Progress
Considerable time has been spent working on the sale of the Balham site and testing its potential direct sale value against the Charity Commission test of probity.
Over 20 possible new premises have been considered. Shortlisted properties will be evaluated in detail, with a full assessment of work required.
PAC are also working alongside CIBSE’s groups and societies, seeking advice and input around building performance. Considerations for the new premises include:
- Central London location
- An inclusive and accessible environment
- The building to showcase best practice
- Utilising smart systems
- Minimising energy use
- Maximising the use of daylight
- Flexible and agile space
- Demonstrating passive attributes
- Openable windows (recognised not always achievable)
- Traffic noise impact
- Air quality, natural ventilation (if possible)
- Soft landings or Post occupancy evaluation
- Benchmarking
- Re-use of fabric and services
- Heat networks (depending on location)
The move is included within the CIBSE Climate Action Plan and will be assessed to evaluate the role it can play in the Institution’s aspiration for net zero and in demonstrating best practice.
Whilst the timeframe is dependent on finding a suitable property, it is acknowledged that with an existing building, we may not get our full wish list and certainly not on day one! We need to demonstrate pragmatic ways to achieve the best performance from our buildings for a modest amount of money.
Related coverage
www.cibsejournal.com/news/cibse-seeks-net-zero-head-office-in-londons-zone-1