Property People: Confidence is key to way ahead

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

I think that the prospects are reasonably good, but from a development perspective, the region is struggling because of the high number of major regeneration schemes that have stalled in its towns and cities.

There is a way forward but I think it is being hindered somewhat by a lack of confidence to revisit and revise large developments early enough.

There is still potential to make these schemes commercially viable, even now, by revising the blueprint and scaling down.

I think the success of a scheme is dependent on managing expectations and benefits for the local community/economy.

What is the best project with which you have been involved?

A scheme I am currently involved with, Westgate in Harrogate, which is quite a landmark in the town.

4Urban purchased the building towards the end of last year and although the Co-operative is in situ as a strong tenant, we are already looking at the viability for future redevelopment.

We are considering proposals for a mixed-use scheme that could include a flagship retail store, boutique hotel and even a restaurant.

It is exciting to be able to make an impact on a prestigious town such as Harrogate and it is very rare that a redevelopment opportunity such as this arises in the town centre.

What is your favourite building in this region, and why?

Sheffield's Winter Gardens is one of the largest urban glasshouses anywhere in Europe and a stunning green world in the heart of the city. Not only is it a great space but I think as a regeneration project it rivals any across Europe. There is nothing else like it in the region and in my view it is an award-worthy example of public realm delivery.

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

To place greater emphasis on effective partnerships. Many lessons have been learned since the property boom and subsequent fall, and the most prominent is probably the lack of joined-up thinking and strategic partnering.

Perhaps the major benefit of the crash has been the chance to "pause" and really consider the longer term impact of any given development and effective partnerships, whether private and public or otherwise, can only be the solid foundation for integrity and sustainability delivering tangible benefits.