Woking is set to become Surrey's office hotspot in 2023, according to a regional commercial property specialist.
Charlie Nicholson, a partner at Vail Williams, believes the town could "emerge from the shadow of Guildford" this year.
"We could see an office market renaissance in the town due to town centre regeneration by Woking Borough Council and the prevalence of quality office space," he said.
"This, together with attractive rents and transport connectivity, means businesses are likely to be attracted back into this increasingly vibrant town centre."
He noted that as footfall continues to increase in Woking, together with its rental competitiveness, "we are likely to see more office occupiers seeking value for money at a time of increasingly tight property purse strings".
"Given that the town has a good range of exciting, quality office space to offer for those occupiers looking to right-size their premises and attract people back into the workplace, 2023 could see Woking ascend to the Surrey office market throne."
Nicholson noted that Woking Borough Council was leading the charge and had "succeeded in creating a vibrant and attractive town centre boasting a compelling retail proposition made up of both independent and high street brands, as well as a unique street food offering".
The anticipated retail, residential and leisure destination at Victoria Square opened in March 2022 and has transformed the western quarter of Woking.
There is also a 47,000 sq ft performing arts facility for Italia Conti Performing Arts Academy, which has brought more than 600 students and staff to the town centre.
"We've seen more and more businesses choose to locate in Woking to take advantage of the range of amenities and retail provision on offer here, as well as its competitive office rents.
"Companies including IDBS, Verint, BOC, Cignpost Diagnostics and Kent & Co have all acquired offices having relocated into Woking town centre from surrounding office markets.
"Woking town centre has seen much more office activity than out of town business parks and secondary locations, following investment in its office accommodation."
