Property People

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

The prospects for the property sector are extremely good. There is continuing high demand for top quality property in all sectors. I work in the centre of Leeds and can see that there are a number of different projects building A-class commercial property which are ongoing at Wellington Place , Sovereign Square and Kirkstall Forge, to name a few. However, there is a shortage of top class commercial property in Leeds and the other city centres in the region. Also, I am working with a client to find a suitable factory/warehouse premises close to major trunk roads, but again there is a shortage of this kind of property. On a positive note, the regeneration of the Leeds South City Centre and the construction of the HS2 line and stations will give the region a massive boost.

What is the best project you have been involved in?

As a Glaswegian, it would be my part in the construction of Hampden Park, Glasgow, but being involved in NHS projects also provides its own satisfaction.

What is your favourite building in the region and why?

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I do like iconic buildings. Sheffield city centre is great; the Leeds First Direct Arena is eye catching; and there is York Minster and Castle Howard to throw into the mix. But if I am to choose a single building, it has to be the Hepworth Gallery in Wakefield because of its originality and what it brings to the region.

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

I am afraid it would be two things – simplify the planning process and get the Northern Powerhouse signed up and funded.

Who has inspired you?

I’m fortunate that I enjoy my job and working with my colleagues. As a construction lawyer, I assist clients in all kinds of different projects from building bridges to constructing NHS facilities and fitting out London city centre retail outlets. Each of these projects has to be carried out and completed to the highest standard and it is this that inspires me to make sure that I am top of my game because I would hate to be the one that lets the team down or is responsible for any delays.