Property People

Steady growth across all sectors looks set to continue and remain lively across the region. In Leeds, there are some interesting retail developments within the city centre: Victoria Gate will be an exciting addition to the shopping scene in Leeds, with new stores, restaurants and cafes enhancing the streetscape and generating further jobs opportunities within the city. I’m also looking forward to the completed refurbishment of Kirkgate Market, which if done right, could be a jewel in the crown for both Leeds and the Yorkshire region.

What is the best project you have been involved in?

The majority of my time has been spent within the education sector, which I find both challenging and rewarding. Being able to help improve the built environment for young people, gives me great satisfaction.

What is your favourite building in the region?

York Minster: a stunning building that stands proud over the historic city of York and can be seen from miles away across the East Riding.

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

I believe there are improvements to be made on the overall design and construction of new housing in the region. I think more pressure needs to be put on developers to ensure that the quality of new homes is not compromised in the demand for volume.

Whom do you admire most in the Yorkshire property industry?

Tom Riordan, chief executive of Leeds City Council. Faced with saving millions of pounds across all departments while delivering on an ever-increasing demand for services, he seems to be doing a good job. I agree with his view that more power should be devolved from Whitehall to the North.