Property People: Adam Burkinshaw

What are the prospects for the property sector in Yorkshire and Humber?

I think that recovery and growth will remain limited in the short term for the regional property sector. However, firm foundations remain so I believe Yorkshire is well placed for recovery.

In terms of the leisure market things are certainly not bleak, despite the recession visitor number have remained buoyant across the region.

This in turn is creating opportunities in the sector, for example “staycations” have enjoyed a huge renaissance in popularity generating investment and growth.

What is the best project you have been involved in?

What really motivates me is being involved in a project from beginning to end.

One such project was the valuation and subsequent sale of Southshore Holiday Park in Bridlington. A complex operational property, it required a wide range of skills which resulted in a successful outcome for all parties.

What is your favourite building in the region and why?

York Minster, it is hard to comprehend how it was built and I doubt it could be recreated in the modern era.

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

The levels of red tape around commercial property transactions continue to be a source of frustration, particularly in the areas around planning and empty rate liability.

I only hope the Government’s pledge in the last Budget to remove many of the unnecessary obstacles is delivered.

The question remains as to whether this can be achieved within a timeframe that will rejuvenate development in the short to medium term.

Who has inspired you?

My parents, who taught me to work hard and play hard and be prepared to have a go at anything.

* Adam Burkinshaw is partner and head of leisure at Sanderson Weatherall in Leeds