In this local vs. remote work debate I find that the truth, as it often does, lies somewhere in the middle. There are pros and cons to both environments and what matters is what each environment offers how an employee chooses to deal with the challenges associated with each.
Some people are more equipped than others to deal with work distractions and some people are more equipped than others to deal with loneliness or isolation when working in a home office environment.
I like the debate but can see both sides and don't feel there is one clear "right way".