Scotland Investor and Developer Breakfast Sets New Tone for Real Estate Collaboration

At a pivotal moment for the Scottish property sector, the Scotland Investor and Developer Breakfast held during UKREiiF 2024 in Leeds brought together 40 senior stakeholders from the public and private sectors for a candid discussion on unlocking investment and accelerating delivery in real estate.

Keynote speaker Sheelagh Cooley, real estate partner and head of Shoosmiths’ Edinburgh office, emphasized the need for new thinking and cross-sector collaboration. Against a backdrop of economic uncertainty and policy complexity, delegates were united in their call for improved planning processes, clearer policy frameworks, and more proactive public-private partnerships.

While capital remains available, investors are looking for stronger signals of policy stability and project viability especially amid challenges like planning delays and rent control uncertainty. Scotland’s Build-to-Rent investment, for instance, has declined significantly since 2020, largely due to concerns over regulatory unpredictability.

However, optimism was evident, particularly around mixed-tenure and affordable housing, where there is significant appetite for joint delivery. The Scottish Government’s £600 million commitment to new housing supply and initiatives like Invest Scotland were seen as positive steps though their success hinges on effective infrastructure and policy alignment.

The event marked a significant shift in tone, moving away from sectoral silos toward open dialogue and shared goals. Public sector attendees acknowledged delivery challenges and expressed willingness to engage more actively with private investors to co-develop practical solutions.

In conclusion, the breakfast served as a launchpad for deeper cooperation. With capital, demand, and ambition all present, the focus now turns to delivery and to creating the conditions that will allow Scotland’s real estate sector to thrive in a rapidly changing environment.