MRP begins work on Portland Building in Brighton

Developer MRP has begun building The Portland Building, a new office scheme on the corner of Church Street and Portland Street in Brighton.

MRP said the scheme will create 30,000 sq feet of “much needed high-quality” office space with an energy efficiency rating of A in North Laine.

The Portland Building adds to MRP’s investment footprint in the city following the completion of The Brinell Building and Cityview, delivering near 100,000 sq ft of office accommodation in recent years.

Located 500 metres from the promenade those working in the office will be able to enjoy two terraces with views across Brighton towards the seafront.

Staff will be able to look across Brighton towards the sea on the terrace (Image: MRP)

MRP said the building will have “exemplary” sustainability and technological features and will be built to achieve a BREAAM Excellent rating and the RIBA2030 target for embodied carbon.

When constructed it will be complete with solar panels, a “green roof” and two “green walls” which help to encourage biodiversity and help improve air quality.

The developer is also undertaking a Lifecycle Carbon Assessment and targeting a benchmark A rating, whereby the scheme is predicted to be 31 per cent more carbon efficient than a typical new build office.

Active travel was also key to its design and the building will be complete with a cycle ramp to a secure cycle storage area and changing facilities to provide a “welcoming” environment for those travelling to work by bicycle.

Mark Diamond, senior director at MRP said: “MRP has a proven track record in delivering best-in-class, environmentally sustainable workspaces in cities across the UK and The Portland Building will deliver high-quality office space in Brighton.

Work has started on The Portland Building (Image: MRP)

“We are excited to bring forward this best-in-class office development and we are confident that when complete it will be a hub for sustainable and innovative businesses helping to support Brighton economy.

“MRP are long-standing investors in the city, having completed three major projects here in recent years, and we look forward to working in partnership with the business community and the city of Brighton as we work towards completion in Q4 of 2023.”

Emma Ormiston of SHW, letting agents for The Portland Building, said: “Brighton has seen a lack of Grade A office developments with most schemes being let prior to completion of the build and over the last 18 months demand has continued to increase as we are seeing a flight to quality by occupiers. 

“We expect The Portland Building to be especially well received due to its central location and ESG credentials, presenting a real opportunity for occupiers to relocate to a first-class office building where they can thrive and grow.”