UKREiiF Blog: Property professionals descend on Leeds | Online

If you somehow missed the hype, UKREiiF – which stands for UK Infrastructure and Investment Forum – is now in its third year and has really gained momentum since its inception.

After weeks of enthusiastic LinkedIn posts from delegates looking forward to meeting us in Leeds, I began to wonder if anyone in real estate was coming to Leeds. According to the website, over 12,000 delegates are expected this year, which is substantially more than last year – and Leeds felt very busy last year! I went then to see what was on offer and this year the Mishcon real estate team will be here in force.

There are over 40 stages and an extensive and ambitious conference programme. Despite Mipim UK never taking off, it seems there is now a real demand for a UK-based property conference. There are reportedly over 250 local authorities in attendance, so it’s a useful opportunity for the public and private sector to come together en masse.

I don’t want to dwell on the weather, but for the first two years of UKREiiF Leeds was bathed in unseasonable sunshine, which really helped to encourage a sense of well-being and positivity. I thought it was too much to hope for a third year of good weather. But when we left King’s Cross at lunchtime it was hot and sun hats and sandals were everywhere. I even started to worry that I hadn’t packed the right wardrobe, a mistake I make every year without fail for Mipim. Unfortunately, as the train pulled north, the clouds thickened and I was greeted in Leeds by some particularly cold weather. I think rain is now on the menu for tomorrow, which could very well dampen spirits.

I had an hour to spare before the evening’s schedule of events began, so map in hand, I set off to explore the downtown retail offerings. I came across Harvey Nichols. And in case it’s of any interest, it has some handy seasonal discounts. There’s even wet weather gear!

The kick off event was inaugural Property Week UKREiiF launch party hosted by specialist lender ASK Partners. It was a very good turnout and a good opportunity to get back to some strategic discussions with a number of guests including Jace Tyrrell from Opportunity London and Goodstone founder Martin Bellinger.

I was delighted to be invited to dinner by the Fabrix team who treated the guests to a truly enjoyable curry feast. It was great to catch up with our hosts and chat with Colin Wilson, Head of Regeneration, Old Kent Road, London Borough of Southwark. Our discussion covered areas of central London, with a slight detour into the New Forest planning issues. Thanks to the Fabrix team for the hospitality.

I will report on how the first day of UKREiiF goes