The British Council for Offices (BCO) has piloted its proposed new office grading system in Scotland, highlighting Haymarket in Edinburgh and 177 Bothwell Street in Glasgow as examples of how regional developments are shaping the next generation of workspace.
The new scoring-based framework, authored by JLL, recognises the role of Scottish schemes delivering advanced sustainability and technology credentials. Both Haymarket and Bothwell Street have been identified as “super prime” projects, with EPC A ratings, large floorplates, premium amenities and top digital connectivity.
Scotland’s inclusion highlights how its major cities are competing on a national and international stage. The research also reflected local market views, with Scottish stakeholders emphasising the need for broader measures of sustainability beyond EPC ratings.
The report also emphasises the strength of high-quality retrofits in regional markets, ensuring occupiers have access to sustainable, amenity-rich workplaces.
Key findings include:
- Widespread dissatisfaction with current grading: 89% of survey respondents agree that a more robust framework would provide greater clarity and consistency.
- Sustainability is now central: 96.5% of respondents rated sustainability certifications (e.g. EPC, BREEAM, NABERS) as essential to office quality – more than any other factor.
- New priorities emerging: Health and well-being, smart technology, and tenant amenities are now seen as critical components of office quality, yet are often overlooked in current classifications.
- A new tier of quality: The concept of “Super Prime” office space is gaining traction, defined by superior environmental performance, advanced technology and premium amenities.
The research draws on input from 89 representatives across 41 organisations, including developers, agents, investors and occupiers, as well as data from more than 180 survey responses and multiple stakeholder workshops.
The proposed new BCO grading system would use a scoring-based approach that allows for more nuanced differentiation between buildings. This includes a flexible matrix adaptable to both new-builds and retrofits, taking the form of a four-tier classification: Prime (≥80 points), Grade A (50–79 points), Grade B (30–49 points) and Grade C (<30 points). The criteria used cover natural light, floor-to-ceiling heights, building management systems, WiredScore rating, WELL certification, energy source, air quality and tenant amenities.
The framework has been tested on office schemes in London, Leeds, Manchester, Reading and Gloucester.
The proposed BCO grading aims to support better decision-making, improve transparency and align the industry with modern standards of performance and user experience.
Samantha McClary, BCO chief executive, said: “As demand for high-performing, sustainable and amenity-rich workplaces continues to grow, the industry needs a shared language to distinguish truly exceptional space. The proposed framework supports the market’s flight to quality and provides clarity for investors, developers and tenants alike. It’s about creating offices that deliver long-term value – for people, for performance and for the planet.”
Ben Reed, Head of Regional Office Agency at JLL, said: “Scotland is home to some of the UK’s most advanced office developments. From Haymarket to 177 Bothwell Street, these projects show how our cities are delivering super prime space that attracts global occupiers. The new framework will help demonstrate just how far quality has moved on.”
Peter Kerr, director at Cameron Kerr and a BCO chair, said: “This report has been strongly welcomed in Scotland, where the demand for high-performing space continues to rise. Occupiers are increasingly focused on wellness, ESG and digital infrastructure, and buildings that integrate these features are setting the standard. A transparent and consistent grading system will give our market the clarity it needs to benchmark and compete internationally.”
