Real estate professionals from across the region attended an event to discuss what is needed to support continued growth and development within the Greater Manchester region.
Entitled ‘Destination Manchester – Powering the City forward’, the event which was hosted by NatWest and Addleshaw Goddard, provided insight into what is next for the city and what types of developments need investment to meet future expectations. Topics discussed also included Manchester’s place on the world stage and how it can compete as an international city, and what the next generation will demand from a city like Manchester.
The event, which was held at Manchester Hall, included a panel of experts giving their views on the issues. They included: Eamonn Boylan, Chief Executive of Greater Manchester Combined Authority; Stephen Wild, Managing Director of Peel Media; Neil Parker, Group Economist at NatWest; and Mike O’Connor, Head of Infrastructure, Energy and Products at Addleshaw Goddard.
The event has been organised as part of NatWest Real Estate Finance’s M60 series which brings together property experts from across the region for discussions on key issues relating to the sector and the local economy.
Host Heath Thomas, Head of Real Estate Finance North West at NatWest, said: “We know Manchester is a dynamic city with the potential to be seen as a world leader but we need to act now as business leaders to make that future a reality. The city has enjoyed a steady period of growth and development, but to sustain this long-term, we need to start investing in projects that will have impact, not just in high profile construction and infrastructure projects – but also on projects which help the ‘feeling’ of the city such as homelessness, litter and street.”
“Our latest M60 has given us some interesting insight into what is needed for further advancement in the region. We thank Addleshaw Goddard for their support of the event and all our speakers for sharing their expertise.”
Mike O’Connor, Head of Infrastructure, Projects & Energy, Addleshaw Goddard added: “Manchester’s skyline continues to evolve and has become a much sought after destination for people to live, work and socialise. Our discussion focused on whether Manchester is seeing the right level of investment and whether the developments being built, such as the influx of high-rise developments and PRS schemes can accommodate future demands of a growing city.”
