Property experts set up serviced office firm

Alex Duckett, ex-Knight Frank and Savills, and Oliver Corrigan, who owns the Carrwood Park and Brookfield Court office parks, formed Gilbanks to provide national companies with a satellite regional presence in Leeds, as well as offices for the start-up market.

Mr Duckett, who returns to the industry after a three-year stint in the car industry, said: “The seismic change in working practices over the past decade, driven by the revolution in technology, has meant that the days of the traditional and functional, leasehold office, are numbered. Flexibility and a productive office experience are the key.

“But the serviced offer sector, especially in the regions, has remained largely unresponsive to these changes. Many serviced offices are tired and unwelcoming and simply don’t provide the level of service or create the environment that is needed.”

He added: “We expect to open our first workspace in autumn this year.”