European Commission to spend over €300m renting back its former offices

Financial consequences of abandoning the relocation

The European Commission has faced the need for additional financial expenditure following the sale of 23 office buildings in Brussels. The total amount received from the buyer was €900 million. Despite the agreement concluded in 2024, the body continues to use part of the sold property. This decision was made to avoid transferring staff to the North Station district, which is considered one of the most problematic in the city.

Cost of extending the lease

According to Politico, the European Commission retained the right to use seven of the sold buildings. Since 2024, the costs of extending their lease have amounted to approximately €255 million.

Additionally, a further €50.2 million is planned for the period 2027–2028. Specifically, €24.59 million is expected to be spent in 2027, and €25.62 million in 2028.

Justification of the decision and trade union criticism

The sale of the property was officially explained by the desire to cut costs and reduce the areas occupied by EU institutions. This decision was also influenced by the shift of some staff to remote work.

Meanwhile, the trade union of EU institution staff criticised the deal. It noted that the buyer would be able to recoup the cost of the purchased buildings through income from their subsequent rental over several years.

The European Commission, in turn, believes that selling the property and leasing it back allows for the renewal of the office stock, the abandonment of inefficient buildings, and the provision of staff with modern workspaces.