Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change, if he will review his departmental estate in order to reduce costs; and if he will make a statement.

The Department of Energy and Climate Change currently occupies four buildings in London and one in Aberdeen. DECC’s current occupation is in line with the Cabinet Office directives of fewer desks than staff (Full Time Equivalent – FTE) and within 8-10m² per FTE (by December 2015).

The lease in Aberdeen is due to expire in May 2016 and alternative accommodation will be sought with value for money as one of the key objectives.

London accommodation is being reviewed with a view to reducing the existing four buildings to two in 2015, and therefore reducing the overall cost of the estate. In order to achieve this, alterations will be required to the two remaining buildings. These changes will be in line with the Cabinet Office directives listed above as well as the Civil Service Reform Plan.