Offices

East Midlands office market H1 2026: what the numbers are telling us

Office transaction levels across the East Midlands remained resilient during the first half of 2026, with completed deals up on the same period last year and occupiers continuing to commit to longer-term leases for quality office accommodation, according to NG Chartered Surveyors’ latest transactional data.

With the first half of 2026 now behind us, we’ve reviewed our own office transactions from across the East Midlands to see how the market has actually performed on the ground, not just through the lens of national headlines surrounding hybrid working and changing workplace strategies.

The headline numbers

• Deal volumes: up 12.5% compared with the same point in 2025
• Average deal size: 1,684 sq ft
• Average achieved rent: £13.91 per sq ft
• Average lease length: approximately 5 years

Taken together, these figures point to a market that remains active, with occupiers continuing to seek well-located, high-quality office space while making considered long-term property decisions.

Deal volumes: occupier confidence remains resilient

A 12.5% increase in completed office transactions is an encouraging sign for the East Midlands office market. While many businesses continue to refine their workplace strategies, occupiers are clearly moving forward with leasing decisions rather than delaying them.

Importantly, activity has been spread across a broad range of office sizes and locations, demonstrating that demand is being driven by a diverse mix of professional services firms, SMEs and growing businesses rather than a small number of large corporate occupiers.

The numbers need context

At first glance, the total amount of office floorspace transacted appears lower than in H1 2025. However, comparisons should be viewed in context.

The first half of 2025 included one exceptional office letting of approximately 30,000 sq ft, one of the largest office transactions completed in the region during the period. Transactions of this scale are relatively uncommon and can disproportionately influence annual market statistics.

Looking beyond that exceptional deal, the underlying picture is one of a market that has remained steady, with a consistent flow of office transactions completed throughout H1 2026.

Quality continues to drive demand

The strongest demand continues to be for modern, well-presented office accommodation that meets the expectations of today’s occupiers.

Across the East Midlands, businesses are increasingly prioritising energy-efficient buildings, flexible layouts and high-quality working environments that support employee wellbeing and collaboration. The consistency of achieved rental levels across the majority of transactions demonstrates that well-specified offices continue to attract healthy occupier demand.

Lease lengths demonstrate long-term commitment

Perhaps one of the most encouraging trends is the willingness of occupiers to commit to longer lease terms.

The majority of transactions completed during H1 2026 were agreed on lease terms of between five and ten years, providing landlords with greater income security while demonstrating that businesses remain confident enough to make long-term commitments when the right accommodation becomes available.

What this means for landlords and occupiers

For landlords: Rising transaction numbers and strong demand for high-quality office accommodation suggest that well-presented, energy-efficient buildings continue to outperform. Investment in refurbishment and ESG improvements remains one of the best ways to attract occupiers.

For occupiers: While good levels of choice remain across the region, the strongest competition continues to be for modern office accommodation in established business locations. Early engagement with agents remains the best way to secure the right space on favourable terms.

Frequently asked questions

How has the East Midlands office market performed in 2026?

Office transaction numbers increased by 12.5% during H1 2026 compared with the same period in 2025, demonstrating continued occupier confidence across the region.

Why does the total floorspace appear lower than last year?

H1 2025 included an exceptional office letting of approximately 30,000 sq ft, which significantly increased the overall totals. Looking beyond that one transaction, the underlying level of market activity has remained resilient.

What are occupiers looking for in today’s office market?

Businesses continue to prioritise high-quality, energy-efficient offices with flexible layouts, good connectivity and strong staff amenities. Demand remains strongest for modern accommodation that supports hybrid working and long-term business growth.

Talk to NG about the East Midlands office market

NG Chartered Surveyors advises landlords, occupiers and investors on office agency, lease advisory, valuations and investment across the East Midlands. If you’re considering your office property strategy in the current market, get in touch with our office team.