Exclusive: London workers flood back to the office ahead of freedom day

Workers in London are already returning to the office in their droves ahead of the lifting of all Covid restrictions on 19 July.

Research shared exclusively with City A.M. by Land Sec shows 70 per cent of London office workers are already coming into the office at least one day a week.

Read more: So we’re going back to the office – now we need to fix childcare

Over a third of workers in the capital have reverted to pre-Covid working routines, the researched showed.

The findings come as the government prepares to drop its working from guidance on Monday 19 July.

Despite confirming that all Covid restrictions will end next week, the government has faced a backlash from businesses over mixed messaging on what it is expected of them after Monday.

Every sector of the economy has been urged to ensure ventilation is adequate, while the government has also called for a gradual return to the office.

Read more: Government calls for ‘gradual return’ to offices over summer after 19 July

The research highlights that workers are missing out on the social benefits of being in the office. 80 per cent of London office workers think they have been unable to build stronger working relationships as a result of not coming into the office.

One in four London office workers are missing attending social events and having access to restaurants and pubs in the City, Land Sec said.

Marcus Geddes, managing director of Land Sec Central London, said: “This research underlines the benefits an office environment brings, whether through the practical benefits for businesses or improved wellbeing for all employees through genuine social interactions that cannot be replicated virtually.”

“Places of work are the lifeblood of our economy and crucial in making our cities the vibrant hubs that can lead our national economic recovery.”

Office occupancy levels are likely to rise as the vaccine rollout spreads, the research suggested. 80 per cent of London office workers feel comfortable returning to the office by the end of September this year, with the figure rising to 85 per cent by the end of the year.

Read more: Government calls for ‘gradual return’ to offices over summer after 19 July