Enjoyment of blood, sweat and tears resulting in new building for growing firm

Prospects are excellent for property in Yorkshire and the Humber. The main challenge will be lack of quality stock but as pre-lets and sales become more of the norm and this in turn begins to drive values up then, speculative development will become a more regular occurrence and we are starting to see evidence of this on a small in isolated locations. There remains, in the industrial sector, a pent up demand for new good quality stock between 20,000 and 50,000 sq ft.

What is the best project you have been involved in?

I enjoy seeing all the energy, discussions, due diligence and blood sweat and tears that goes into property resulting in a completed building or a refurbishment for a new expanding business. There is nothing beats seeing a once vacant building, become bustling with people and activity. It makes all the initial ‘hardship’ seem worthwhile.

What is your favourite building in this region and why?

There isn’t one specific building. With Holder & Co, I now look at every piece of commercial property and land as having possibilities to satisfy the requirements of the many occupiers that are considering bigger, better, more operationally effective premises.

If you could change one thing to improve property in this region, what would it be?

A more proactive approach to development from local authorities in the region would go a long way to ensuring that Leeds began to compete with Manchester again. The First Direct Arena is proof that ‘if you build it, they will come’. Leeds and its inhabitants have so many good attributes that, if the reigns were to be loosened the city and region, in my opinion would grow, thrive and prosper.

Who has inspired you?

For their approach to business, rise from humble beginnings to successful contractor, developer and property owner as well as their ongoing investment in all that is Leeds Rugby, it would have to be Paul Caddick of Caddick Group.