Appetite for Change: Sheelagh Cooley Sparks Fresh Hope for Scotland’s Real Estate Future
At the recent Scotland Investor and Developer Breakfast, Sheelagh Cooley delivered a compelling keynote addressing the pressing need for clarity and collaboration within Scotland’s real estate sector. Joined by Barry McKeown, head of real estate Scotland at Shoosmiths, Cooley shared insights from a legal perspective, emphasizing that while capital is available, unlocking investment requires addressing systemic challenges in planning, policy, and infrastructure.
The event brought together senior figures from both public and private sectors to foster open dialogue amid ongoing economic and geopolitical uncertainty. Delegates acknowledged the Scottish Government’s strategic shift to position planning as a core economic enabler, linking development not only to financial outcomes but also to broader goals such as economic growth and poverty reduction. However, concerns remain over persistent planning delays and stalled housing projects, with over 20,000 homes currently impacted across the country.
Investor confidence is also hindered by regulatory uncertainty, particularly surrounding rent controls affecting the Build-to-Rent and Purpose-Built Student Accommodation sectors. While the UK has seen record investment in these areas, Scotland’s volumes have declined significantly. Delegates highlighted the importance of forthcoming legislation, including the Housing (Scotland) Bill, in providing the clarity necessary to restore market confidence and encourage development.
The breakfast further underscored a growing appetite for public-private partnerships, especially in delivering affordable and mid-market housing. The Scottish Government’s £600 million commitment to new housing supply signals a commitment to scaling delivery, but private capital and expertise remain essential to meet demand and achieve mixed-tenure, sustainable communities.
Ultimately, the event marked a valuable opportunity for candid, solution-focused conversations between stakeholders. The consensus was clear: the appetite for change is strong, and with aligned policy and collaborative effort, Scotland’s real estate sector is poised to deliver transformative growth. The focus now turns to effective implementation, providing the certainty investors require to unlock Scotland’s full potential.
