Empty Offices Being Converted into One-bed Flats

Published on: 12 Mar, 2026
Updated on: 13 Mar, 2026

The former BSA headquarters building to be converted into flats.

An empty Guildford office complex is being converted into flats.

What was the head office for BSA (Bernard Sims Associates), health and safety consultants, in Upper Edgeborough Road (off the Epsom Road), has been empty for two years. Permitted development rights allow its conversion into 23 one-bedroom apartments.

According to a press release from HJ Collection of Canary Wharf, London, the site was acquired for £3.28 million. Once complete, the site is forecast to reach a GDV gross development value or GDV, ie the potential sales revenue and project profitability, of £7.4 million.

The main contractor is said to be currently on site and set-up is complete, including the installation of welfare cabins, self-contained, portable buildings designed to provide essential amenities: toilets, seating, canteen facilities, and drying rooms—for workers.

The construction team has stripped out the building to its shell and core, and they can now commence with “soft fit” (non structural) installation – a key early milestone which will enable the building to be boarded up before moving into the dry lining phase.

Head of construction, Nester Lisbey, said: “We are really pleased with the initial progress at the Guildford site, and are on track to complete the project on time and within budget. This marks a strong and positive start to the construction programme, setting the tone for the progress ahead.

“The plans for the building are extremely exciting, and the finished site is set to be high-spec and beautifully designed. They are also in a fantastic location, with easy access to the railways station with direct connections to London, local amenities including the High Street, and green spaces – meaning we are sure to have a queue of people looking to move into the apartments.

“The area has a growing population of professionals, downsizers and commuters, and these apartments will be ideal to accommodate them.”

Reece Mennie, CEO and founder of HJ Collection, added: “Guildford is just one of many projects that we are set to complete in 2026, supporting our plans to become one of the leading national property developers. By utilising permitted development rights, we are able to renovate sites efficiently in key commuter towns across the UK – revitalising unused buildings and supporting the local economy.

“We remain committed to playing our part in halting Britain’s housing crisis and firmly believe that bringing empty sites back into use is the way to do this quickly, while driving the sustainability agenda through the reuse and recycling of as many of the original materials as possible.”

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