Year Ahead 2016: Rob Darrington, CPP

Year Ahead 2016: Rob Darrington, CPP

Rob Darrington, partner and head of office agency at Sheffield-based property consultancy Commercial Property Partners (CPP)
 
What didn’t happen in 2015 that was expected to?

From an office sector perspective, 2015 has been an eventful year, seeing spec development, new headline rents, greatest level of take up in over a decade, improved investment market. The only thing that was missing really was greater signs of companies ‘Northshoring’. It was expected that there would be an influx of major corporates seeking to relocate their central departments out of London to locations where salaries and property costs were more economical.
 

What should we expect to see in 2016?

Continued growth in the Business Services Sector.
 

What would be a sign that things are going well?

Take-up levels continuing at a similar rate to this year. An increase in planning applications.

What would be a sign that things are going badly?

An increase in businesses down-sizing.
 
 
What do you want to see happen in 2016?

A firm decision on the Sheffield Retail Quarter (SRQ). I appreciate this is probably moving quicker than it has in years, but the lack of progress on this matter is extremely frustrating and has cost the city millions in lost revenue.

Sheffield needs a strong retail core. Everything else builds on this. Increased visitors > increased residential population > increase in money spent > improved economy > new development and services… etc.
 

Who or what do you predict will have a successful year?

The student residential market will continue to see success, as both universities continue to prosper.
 

Who or what is most at risk/faces a difficult year?

Secondary buildings in secondary locations
 

What are you most looking forward to in 2016?

Construction cranes on the horizon!
 

What are your words of wisdom for the year ahead?

Never argue with an idiot!

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