Take up in the Essex office market remained below trend levels for the fourth successive year in 2025, with a total of 145,800 sq ft of activity. The largest transaction over the year was the 33,800 sq ft freehold purchase of Xchanging House in Basildon, whilst insurance group QBE leased 16,265 sq ft at Regent House in Chelmsford.

This year has started strongly, with take up in Q1 2026 standing at just under 73,000 sq ft, suggesting that full year activity could return to trend levels if this momentum is maintained. The largest transaction in Q1 was the 32,350 st ft letting to East of England Ambulance Service at Building C Chelmsford Business Park.