Tangible signs of optimism and rising confidence in the region

In spite of the eurozone problems and general domestic economic situation there are tangible signs of increasing confidence throughout the Yorkshire region. SMEs and corporate occupiers are looking to implement positive decisions which they see as necessary to move their business forward, but they still remain cautious.

What is the best project you have been involved in? 

There are too many to single out just one. Helping to promote the Leeds city region is certainly the most important and significant, if not always the easiest, project that I have been involved with.

What is your favourite building in the region and why? 

Broad Gate in Leeds. In my view, this is the closest scheme that we have in the region comparable to a large central London development. It has a fantastic specification and a definite ‘wow’ factor.

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

I would ensure local politicians, civic leaders and property professionals shout louder, and with a unified voice, about the benefits of being based in the region over competing centres. This has improved since I started working in the city 15 years ago, but we are still individually and collectively too quiet.

Who do you most admire in the property industry? 

Locally, the person who has inspired me is James Poskitt, the managing director at GMI Property Company.