Property People

Over the last six months there seems to have been more activity in the construction sector.

People are much more positive now due to the flow of extra work and companies have started to recruit again.

I think we can be optimistic to see things getting back to somewhere near where they used to be prior to the downturn.

What is the best project you have been involved in?

One of the best projects this year has been the four-storey staff accommodation building at Peterborough Hospital, which boasts 110 bedrooms with communal areas.

The project was conceived, designed and delivered by Avie Consulting within a very short timescale.

What is your favourite building in the region and why?

The new Trinity Shopping Centre in Leeds has to be my favourite (not just because of the many great stores).

The roof is very impressive making it a light and airy venue, which is very pleasant to walk around and it’s a great boost for the region.

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

To see more building owner-occupiers who will be more interested in the total life costings of buildings rather than speculators who are only concerned with a quick profit.

Who has inspired you?

I have to say my colleagues - the directors of Avie.

They took a chance of setting up a brand new business 18 months ago when things were a little tough, but they were always optimistic (and still are) about the future in construction.