Property People: ‘Trinity effect’ continues to have positive impact on city

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

Given the continued increase in activity across the region and Leeds City Centre in particular, prospects for the short to medium term look very positive.

There is currently a shortage of Grade A offices in Leeds with the city due to benefit from circa 540,000 sq ft of new space in 2016, which is having a positive effect on rents.

It is widely anticipated that rents on new Grade A stock will hit £28 per sq ft before the end of 2015, with rents on refurbished stock currently not too far behind.

The ‘Trinity effect’ is still having a positive impact on city centre retailing and leisure with a new bar or restaurant seemingly opening up every other week.

What is the best project you have been involved in?

As part of the National Valuation team I am involved in numerous projects which can range from large national portfolios to smaller, individual valuations.

This is great because it gives me a real variety of work across different sectors and working for CBRE means that I get exposure to some of the best assets that the Yorkshire region has to offer.

What is your favourite building in the region and why?

My favourite building is definitely York Minster. This has to be one of the most beautiful buildings in our region. Its sheer size and the intricate detail are truly remarkable. Equally as impressive is the way in which it is so well maintained and cared for.

I have to say that it also holds some personal significance to me, as I proposed to my soon–to-be wife just outside!

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

It seems as though there has been a general, industry-wide lack of new graduates over the past six to seven years and it will be good to see the next crop of young property professionals entering the industry now that the markets are looking more positive.

Who has inspired you?

I’m afraid I really can’t pick out a single individual as I’ve been inspired by numerous people whom I have met through the industry or have had the pleasure of working with.