Property Focus: The Interview – Neil Manock

NEIL Manock is director of Yorkshire-based Neil Manock Residential Development Consultancy.

With more than 25 years’ experience in planning and architectural practice, and with major developers in the housebuilding sector, Mr Manock established Bridge View Consultancy Services in Markington, Harrogate in 1998 before launching Neil Manock Residental Development Consultancy in April this year.

Mr Manock has recently written a comprehensive and practical guide to help owners assess the development potential of their land or property entitled – Increase the Value of your Property: A Practical Guide to Residential Development.

1. What are your views on the current state of the commercial property and property development markets?

The residential market in Yorkshire has seen a steady increase in activity over the past six to nine months but the market remains very difficult, with the absence of bank funding still the biggest problem.

Sadly I do not see this situation changing much over the coming years with the banks appearing to be focused on reducing investment in property even further.

2. What are the key challenges and pieces of legislation you think will most affect your sector over the coming months?

The economy is by far the biggest challenge to the residential sector. As Government spending cuts begin to bite, the challenge will be to try to maintain what confidence there is in the market.

3. Why do you think Yorkshire is a good place to do business?

It has to be because of the people and the willingness within the business community to share information and leads. This has been particularly important during the recession and I am sure it’s contributed to many businesses staying afloat.
 
4. What is your favourite building/development in Yorkshire and why?

It has to be Bramall Lane, Sheffield, home of the Blades.  Need I say more! 
 
5. If you could improve anything in the region, what would it be?

It’s an old chestnut, and actually relevant across the whole country, but we need to find ways of simplifying the planning system and making it more responsive, efficient and above all, consistent. 

6. What barriers have you had to overcome during your career and how have you overcome them?

The main barrier or challenge has been the ups and the downs of the housing market which, coupled with changes in financial and planning legislation, has such a profound effect on my business.

I have overcome these challenges by constant evaluation of the business, the service I am providing and what I am charging for that service.

It’s easy to become too comfortable with a “way of doing things” and take your eye off how the market may be altering. 

Being aware of subtle changes in the market, and modifying your business approach accordingly, is the key.

7. What was your first job and how did you enter your current line of work?

I worked as a development planner for Conran Roche, a firm of architects and planning consultants based in Covent Garden and Milton Keynes. 

The company was set up by Terence Conran and as such placed great emphasis on good design and quality in everything you do.  I was involved in some prestigious commissions including preparing the master plan for the regeneration of the London Docklands. The job provided me with an excellent entry into the business.

8. What do you most enjoy about your job?

I would say the variety of work and the diverse mix of people I come into contact with on a daily basis.  The interaction with these people and providing them with a service with which they are happy, helps keep you motivated during these testing times.
 
9. What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?

“There is a solution to every problem.”
 
10. And the worst?

“Never take risks.” – I believe if you want to succeed in life you have to take educated risks from time to time.