A report has been launched today detailing how the public sector can raise the productivity of its workforce by £8bn a year by using buildings in a greener way. The report ‘Leaner and Greener II: Putting Buildings to Work’ suggests the public sector rationalises its property portfolio.

Chaired by Matthew Hancock MP, the report was the result of an eight month parliamentary inquiry. It recommends improving workplace conditions by championing practices such as flexible working, improving the environmental efficiency of its estate while improving the productivity of its workforce between 5% and 15%.

Eric Pickles, Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government, said: “Taxpayers have the right to expect public servants to be ruthless in the pursuit of good value – and utterly unforgiving of bureaucracy”.

“Cutting out waste, sharing back offices and redesigning services. This report clearly shows how it is possible to deliver real savings and other benefits. The expertise is there, the experience is there. Time to get on and do it”.

The recommendations are directed towards central government, local government and the wider public sector.