Lockdowns proved that many office workers could work effectively from home, saving time and money by avoiding commutes. Accordingly, they must be repurposed by converting older offices to education, health, or mixed use, which is more viable than residential conversions. Elliott argues that the idea of CBDs as primarily “places where office workers go to work” is now outdated. AdvertisementThe implication is that suburban hubs will become the main centres for employment, health and education services, and social infrastructure. As a result, planning must shift towards supporting suburban job clusters, improving suburban transport, strengthening local economies, and reducing reliance on CBD‑centric peak‑hour systems.