As workplaces recalibrate in the wake of hybrid working’s rapid rise, the South Coast’s two commercial powerhouses, Southampton and Portsmouth, are vying for tenant attention and investment. Businesses looking to secure office space face an evolving landscape, where accessibility, amenities, and flexibility are paramount. At Hellier Langston, our experience as a leading commercial property agency on the South Coast reveals insightful trends in both cities, informing a data-driven picture of how Southampton and Portsmouth are adapting to the new realities of hybrid work.

Here, we explore the latest market dynamics, comparing take-up rates, amenities, parking availability, and the broader appeal of each city’s office environment to help occupiers and investors make informed decisions.

The Southampton Office Market Report: Resilience and Rejuvenation

Southampton continues to emerge as a resilient office market, bolstered by its strategic location as a transport and business hub. A Southampton office market report highlights a gradual but steady increase in take-up since early 2023, with a growing appetite for office spaces that blend flexibility with quality fit-outs.

Commercial landlords are increasingly offering agile lease terms, reflecting hybrid working’s emphasis on part-time office presence. Notably, buildings in the City Centre, Ocean Village, and Southampton’s burgeoning Cultural Quarter have seen significant interest from technology firms, professional services, and the creative industries.

One of Southampton’s competitive edge factors is its comprehensive public transportation links, including direct rail connections to London and beyond, which support commuting patterns in a hybrid model. This connectivity appeals to businesses balancing in-office days with remote working. Moreover, access to major motorways offers an alternative for employees preferring to drive, although parking remains a challenge in busy central locations.

Southampton has witnessed investment in improved amenities within office complexes and surrounding areas, reflecting occupiers’ demand for enhanced wellbeing features and collaborative spaces. Developments focusing on green credentials and sustainability (a rising priority post-pandemic) signal the city’s long-term commitment to a hybrid-ready commercial property market.

Portsmouth Commercial Property Trends: Adapting to Hybrid Work

Portsmouth’s commercial property trends reveal a market keenly focused on transformation and adaptation. The city’s waterfront regeneration and the expansion of mixed-use developments are contributing to a refreshed office environment that embraces hybrid working requirements.

Take-up rates in Portsmouth, while slightly behind Southampton, are accelerating, particularly in locations such as Gunwharf Quays and the City Centre. What Portsmouth may lack in scale compared to Southampton, it compensates for through affordable rents and a growing cluster of tech startups and creative firms taking advantage of the city’s evolving workspace landscape.

A pressing issue in Portsmouth, however, remains the availability of parking spaces. With more employees expected onsite part-time, the existing parking infrastructure strains under demand, prompting landlords and city planners to explore innovative solutions such as shared parking schemes and improved public transport options.

Portsmouth’s office spaces are increasingly incorporating flexible layouts, communal breakout areas, and secure bike storage, enhancing appeal to a workforce that values choice in how, when, and where they work. The city’s proximity to the coast and lifestyle attractions are additional draws for businesses seeking to marry professional and quality-of-life considerations.

Comparing the Two: Who’s Winning the Hybrid Work Race?

When deciding which South Coast office market is “winning” the hybrid work race, much depends on what companies prioritise. Southampton offers stronger transport connectivity and more extensive Grade A office stock, making it attractive for larger organisations and those wanting a high-profile business address. Its rising take-up rates signal strong confidence from tenants who value convenience and modern working environments.

Portsmouth’s appeal lies in its cost-effectiveness, ongoing area regeneration, and lifestyle benefits. It may particularly suit SMEs and startups value-conscious about overheads but unwilling to compromise on quality and flexibility. Nevertheless, parking challenges are a hurdle that needs addressing if Portsmouth is to compete head-to-head with Southampton for hybrid working occupiers.

Both markets are making strides, adapting their offerings to the hybrid working culture. Southampton arguably leads on infrastructure and office quality, whereas Portsmouth is making significant headway through innovation in workspace design and integration with city-wide regeneration projects.

Get in Touch to Discuss Your Commercial Property Needs

Deciding between Southampton and Portsmouth for your office location inevitably comes down to the unique needs of your business. Whether your priority is easy staff access, flexible lease terms, or cost efficiencies, our expert commercial agents on the South Coast are here to guide you. With deep market knowledge and an extensive portfolio of available properties, Hellier Langston is perfectly placed to help you seize the best opportunities in a rapidly evolving workplace environment.

If you want to learn more about the latest Southampton office market report or the shifting Portsmouth commercial property trends, get in touch with Hellier Langston today. We can provide expert advice, bespoke market insights, and the latest listings tailored to your business’s hybrid working strategy.

Contact us now to get a quote or arrange a consultation with one of our specialist commercial agents. Together, we can help you find the ideal office space to support your business’s future on the South Coast.