Time to change this ‘unfair tax’ on empty properties

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

The region has to keep plugging away to soak up the currently high level of vacant accommodation. We have seen an increased level of demand since the start of the year, but that needs to be sustained. Deals are generally for smaller space because funding cannot be obtained for larger projects, but the volume of deals is building up and some larger transactions are starting to be seen.

What is the best project you have been involved in?

After working in the profession for almost 30 years in Leeds I’ve been involved in thousands of instructions for hundreds of clients. I’m proud to win every new instruction, as doing my best for every client on each job is what keeps me motivated.

What is your favourite building in the region and why?

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It’s always exciting to see something new on the skyline, like Broadcasting Place or Candle House in Leeds, or something which challenges people’s perceptions like the Hepworth Gallery in Wakefield.

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

It would be to change the rules for Empty Business Rates Relief to remove the burden of an unfair tax from the cost of holding empty commercial property. It means that the market is driven by a fear of empty space. If the banks were able to lend money on commercially acceptable terms that would also give the region a better chance to move forward. For all the criticism which they attracted, the Regional Development Agencies were a focus for funding activities and the LEPs just don’t have anything like the same clout to kick-start development.

Whom do you most admire in the property industry?

The early years of my career were guided by my father, John Corby, when as a teenager I worked at his firm, Renton & Renton in Harrogate. I started working as a porter in the auction saleroom and moved on to residential sales. I started work in Leeds in 1983 dealing with a range of commercial property and for seven years I was managed by John Crawley at Henry Butcher & Co.