After the events of 2020, predicting what 2021 has in store is no mean feat. That’s precisely what several of our clients have done when asked by leading industry titles.
Covid has changed what people want and need from their homes, and the areas that surround them. But what effect will this have longer term, as we emerge from the restrictions that the pandemic has imposed?
In Property Week, Matt Slade of Quintain predicted a further rise in localism, saying that we’ll see much more discussion of the 15-Minute City. Matt, in a piece he wrote for Drapers, said that “confined to our neighbourhoods, we discovered our communities” and this increased spirit should be harnessed to help high streets thrive.
Meanwhile, Sue Shepherd told Property Week why she believes that bricks-and-mortar retail absolutely has a future when landlords and retail partners work together. Sue also joined leading experts in Retail Gazette and Retail Destination to advocate for physical retail and collaboration between landlord, asset manager and brand.
Also speaking to Property Week, Swansea Council Leader Cllr Rob Stewart, who is overseeing the city centre’s £1bn regeneration, believes the changes to how we live and work will see greater demand in regional cities. These places will need to ensure the right mixed-use provisions are in place, from leisure and entertainment, to access to green spaces, like the ambitious Copr Bay scheme underway in Swansea.
Finally, Ben and David Woolman of Woolbro Group told Property Week that, despite the challenges residential property faces, there are opportunities. 2021 will continue to see people looking for more space in their homes, for work and leisure purposes, and quality homes will be in high demand.
While Covid revolutionised the way we live and work, 2021 will be the year we decide what stays and what goes. We’re looking forward to continuing to work with clients to make sure they’re part of the conversations’ that shape all our lives.
