Hitting the heights with the iconic Emley transmitter

It will be a difficult market again in 2012 but there will be some specific opportunities particularly from pre-lettings, driven by occupiers with lease expiries.

What is the best project you have been involved in?

In recent years it has been the Advanced Manufacturing Park where my client is Harworth Estates. What goes on there is absolutely mind-blowing and you don’t need to be an engineer to appreciate just how important that sector is to the UK economy.

If I can have another choice I would say, historically, it was Princess Exchange, home of DLA, next to Leeds City Station. The scheme included the refurbishment of the derelict north concourse and now presents Leeds with a true gateway for people travelling into the city by rail.

What is your favourite building in the region and why?

I know it’s a slightly unusual choice, but the Emley Moor transmitter mast, because of its iconic design. You can mention it to almost anyone even if they are not from the area and they will know it.

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

Greater availability of funding for the commercial property sector, particularly in terms of development and refurbishment activity, but also to allow investment by local businesses, which in turn will benefit the property sector.

Whom do you most admire in the property industry?

Kevin McCabe, chairman of the Scarborough Group and Sheffield United. He has demonstrated impeccable timing, in terms of predicting the ups and downs of the property cycle. He was also very early to recognise the potential of the Chinese and Asian economies.