More than 50 property professionals gathered this week (Wednesday 23 March) with the City’s political leaders at St Marys exploring how new developments will have a crucial role in transforming Southampton into a modern European city.
The event, organised by property company JLL and specialist public relations agency, PPS Group, featured a debate on development and regeneration in the city led by Councillor Simon Letts, leader of Southampton City Council, and Councillor Jeremy Moulton, Conservative Group Leader.
Both parties committed to transforming Southampton into a modern European city and stressed the importance of the need for better infrastructure and transport links in order to realise this ambition.
David Ramsay, planning and development director at JLL who took part in the panel debate, said: “The Council has an ambitious vision for the city and this event was an ideal opportunity for developers, architects and property advisors to hear first-hand how this can be delivered and what obstacles need to be overcome.
“The need for much improved infrastructure and transport links, both road and rail, is evidently a major concern and is likely to be a priority for any additional investment the region secures as a result of the proposed devolution of power to a combined authority.”
The debate also highlighted the Council’s commitment to developing key sites in the city, including Bargate Shopping Centre, the fruit and vegetable market, Royal Pier and Ocean Village.
Andy Martin from PPS who chaired the sessions, said: “Both politicians were frank, open and realistic about the challenges facing the City. Whoever wins in May, we can be confident that not only do they know what needs to be done, they’re rolling their sleeves up and preparing for action.”
