Mayor leads discussion on growth plan for region

Avison Young hosted a panel event with mayor Richard Parker and industry leaders from both public and private sectors to discuss the forces that are shaping Birmingham and the West Midlands.

Delivered in partnership with the British Property Federation, ‘Let’s Talk: West Midlands’ was the first in a series of events Avison Young will be hosting across its ‘Big Nine’ cities in the United Kingdom.

Mr Parker led the discussion focusing on the region’s overarching economic vision and areas of investment potential across the Midlands.

A special project group is also being set up to help remove barriers around planning and help speed up major development and regeneration projects.

Helen Collins, managing director, Midlands and Head of Affordable Housing at Avison Young UK, said: “The West Midlands remains a top investment choice for UK and global businesses so it was great to hear from mayor Richard Parker and other leading voices from the region about the opportunities for growth.

“Despite the global headwinds, there was a real emphasis on unlocking the potential we have in Birmingham, and across the West Midlands, to deliver inclusive economic growth and ensure this is a great place to live and work.

“At Avison Young we have a strong history of supporting landmark regeneration across the city and we are excited to continue collaborating with partners to drive the region's future success.”

Melanie Leech, chief executive at British Property Federation, added: “The West Midlands is an excellent example of how England’s Mayors are increasingly powerful and key in delivering the new homes and workplaces of the future.

“Property investors and developers are intrinsic parts of this growth story, so talking with Richard Parker, and with other Mayors during the course of the year, is hugely important for national as well as regional growth.”

Harry Badham, chief development office & asset repositioning officer at Hammersmith, said: “Birmingham is a great city and one that we see as a city of growth. We’ve invested in and delivered critical investments into our estate in the city, each of which play a part in being the beating heart of Birmingham’s identity and are key to the city experience for residents and visitors.

“We believe there’s still huge potential because of the catchment and economic clusters here, as well as the investment the government is making into infrastructure across the region.”