Wokingham opens EPC A-rated depot offices to slash carbon and boost efficiency

2 December 2025

Wokingham Borough Council has unveiled a new office facility at Toutley Depot designed to deliver one of the borough’s most energy-efficient workplaces, as part of its drive to reduce emissions and streamline service delivery.

The depot, replacing a 1970s building, has been constructed to an EPC A rating, placing it among the top 1% of UK buildings for energy performance. Measures such as high-grade insulation, air source heat pumps, sensor-controlled lighting and modular construction are all aimed at reducing energy consumption. The roof has been prepared for solar panels, enabling the site to potentially generate its own renewable power in the future.

The new offices bring together council teams and long-term partners responsible for roads, green spaces and waste services. Officials say this co-location will cut travel between sites, improve coordination and speed up response times for maintenance and environmental services, while creating operational efficiencies.

Electric vehicle charging points and cycle facilities have been installed to encourage low-carbon commuting for staff and contractors. Inside, open-plan workspaces, meeting rooms and welfare areas are designed to support flexible working and collaborative planning.

Adrian Betteridge, executive member for active travel, transport and highways at Wokingham Borough Council, says:

“Close collaboration with our long-term partners is vital to delivering essential services efficiently and consistently. By bringing everyone together under one roof, we can share best practice, coordinate more effectively and respond quickly to residents’ needs.”

The new depot can accommodate up to 150 staff working flexibly across sites and offices, including teams from Volker Highways, Tivoli and FCC Environment.

Image credit: Wokingham Borough Council