Leicester’s Space City expansion wins Insider Media East Midlands Property Award for sustainability

Leicestershire’s first net zero carbon property development has won the Sustainability Award at this year’s Insider Media East Midlands Property Awards.

Dock 3-5 in Space City Leicester is a £16.5m low-carbon innovation hub developed by Brackley Property Developments and owned and managed by Leicester City Council.

Sustainability shaped every stage of the design, with a ‘fabric first’ approach to cut energy demand, supported by on-site renewable power from solar panels. According to the BWB Consulting Energy Statement, the scheme achieves a 101.11% reduction in regulated CO2 emissions, going beyond both local and national targets and meeting the UKGBC Net Zero Carbon Buildings Framework.

The development operates entirely net zero carbon, with electric heating, no oil or gas use, and half of its roof covered in solar panels. Other features include EV charging points, cycle storage, sustainable drainage, and reduced external lighting to protect local wildlife.

Dock 3-5 provides over 64,000 sq ft of workspace, supporting up to 45 companies and giving local start-ups and scale-ups space to grow. The project attracted significant investment from the Government’s Levelling Up Fund, underlining its importance to Leicester’s regeneration.

Designed by Stephen George + Partners, the project team included Wilten Construction, BWB Consulting, Summers-Inman and Envision Group. Dock 3-5 was previously shortlisted for Large Non-Residential Scheme of the Year at last year’s ProCon Leicestershire Property and Construction Awards.

Stephen Pedrick-Moyle, managing director of Brackley Property Developments, said:

“We are delighted Dock 3-5 has been recognised for its sustainability credentials. This project is not only a benchmark for low-carbon development but also a vital part of Leicester’s Levelling Up ambitions, creating high-quality space for innovative businesses, supporting local jobs, and helping to retain talented graduates from the city’s two universities.”