South Coast: Property Awards launched with support across the region

A host of dynamic schemes transforming areas of the Solent and South Coast were showcased at the launch of the prestigious South Coast Property Awards 2017.

Now in their second year, the Awards aim to highlight the outstanding talent in the region’s commercial and residential property sector and are a key opportunity to bring together the Solent and South Coast property community. Organised and staged by The Business Magazine, the event is supported by the Southampton, Portsmouth and Bournemouth property associations as well as high profile local business sponsors and media partner CoStar.

Announcing the launch and inviting category nominations was David Murray, managing director of The Business Magazine. Remarking on the hundreds of millions of pounds being invested, Murray said: “This is an incredibly exciting time for property in the region. We hope these awards can reflect some of the successes that are happening in terms of firms, developments, deals and individuals.” Murray added that the event was already establishing itself as the premier multi-category property awards scheme and the only one which recognised achievements across the entire South Coast and Solent area. “From Basingstoke to the Isle of Wight and Weymouth to Chichester, these awards are all about championing success in the region’s commercial and residential property sector,” he said.  

The 2016 event saw Southampton take the coveted title City of the Year. Speaking on behalf of the Southampton Property Association, Nella Pang said the Awards provided a platform to promote both the huge amount going on in the city and attract investors. Referring to the long-term city centre Master Plan, launched in 2012 to highlight potential development, Pang explained: “It appeared to be bold and unrealistic but five years on and the VIP sites identified for redevelopment are now becoming a part of Southampton’s new landscape and contributing to the creation of a vibrant and energetic city.” Citing Southampton’s impressive ranking as 4th highest city in England for good growth (source PWC) and one of the ‘happiest cities to work in’ (source OPP) Pang added: “There has never been such a good time to live, work or invest in Southampton.”

Alan Cufley, director of transport for Portsmouth City Council, told the audience Portsmouth was: “A city aiming high.” He said its future had never looked better and highlighted recent schemes including the Hot Wall Arches, new student accommodation and the £11 million harbour interchange improvements. And he outlined the impressive blueprint to transform the gateway to Portsmouth into a new maritime district potentially specialising in the construction of superyachts and home to iconic landmarks – all part of the Tipner Master Plan, borne out of the £50m government City Deal awarded to kick-start regeneration. “Our vision for Portsmouth is bold and ambitious and shows how proud and entrepreneurial Portsmouth is.”

Encouraging nominations, Cufley said successful property markets depended on those doing the deals, designing the buildings, providing advice and inspiring confidence. “This is why it's important for people to nominate the work of those who demonstrate the flair, special skills and attributes that go into making in making Portsmouth the great waterfront city it is.”

Law firm Blake Morgan, one of the sponsors of SCPA, was the venue for the launch evening. Senior associate Daniel Curtis said: “We are proud to support the Awards and fully expect the event to build on the excellent start last year. As sponsor of the Regeneration Project of the Year we particularly look forward to seeing the entries for the projects that are helping to shape the future of our region's dynamic property market.”

Mark Cook, managing director MC Plan and Site Services, which took the 2016 award for Fast Rising Property Businesses, said: “Winning any award for a business gives credibility and quality assurance. In my opinion nominating another company or individual is the best accolade you can give.”

This celebration of the South Coast property market will culminate in a gala black-tie dinner at the Hilton at the Ageas Bowl on Thursday July 13 and hosted by TV and radio personality Jeremy Vine. Tables of 10 are priced at £1,700 ex VAT and individual seats are £180 ex VAT, to include drinks reception, three-course dinner and a half bottle of wine per person.