OGC extends benchmarking service

The Office of Government Commerce (OGC) is extending its Property Benchmarking Service, it has been announced.

Originally launched in 2006, the initiative – which became mandatory in Whitehall last year - allows public sector asset managers to measure and report on the contribution of their real estate portfolio and services.

Under the new plans, the service will be available across the wider public sector due to the creation of a new four-year framework delivered by the OGC's supply partners IPD Occupiers.

Nigel Smith, chief executive of the OGC, said it is hoped such access will "spread the best practice and benefits" that the benchmarking service can offer.

He added: "In the current economic climate it is essential that public sector organisations utilise tools and initiatives that can help to guarantee them value for money. This service will do just that."

The OGC is part of HM Treasury and was created to ensure the government is getting the best value for its expenditure.