MULTI MILLION POUND INVESTMENT PLANS MAKE PLYMOUTH A POSITIVE PLACE TO BE

There’s a real sense of positivity around the Plymouth housing market as plans to revitalise the city centre is helping to defy the Brexit doom mongers.

 That’s the message from property professionals in the city, who say planned investment in Plymouth should help to keep the marketplace resilient.

Members of the Plymouth Property Professionals Association (PAPPA) say that while local sales activity in both the residential and commercial sectors has slowed, there are still those looking to buy and sell.

 They believe that the multi million pound redevelopment of the city centre will help to keep property sales and rents buoyant in the post-Brexit era – and urged the city to stay positive too.

 Plymouth City Council has already announced bold plans to transform the city centre, building on the commercial development of the old Bretonside bus station site, which is rapidly taking shape.

 There are major investments planned in both transport and infrastructure, with the council signalling money for local schools, and schemes including a new cruise terminal and the redevelopment of Plymouth rail station.

 Money has also been earmarked for the forthcoming Mayflower 2020 celebration, that is set to showcase Plymouth on a global stage and is certain to attract big visitor numbers.

 Mark Slade, of PAPPA members, the property consultants Bruton Knowles, said there was much to be positive about in the commercial sector.

 “Clearly, the ongoing doubt over a deal or no-deal Brexit has impacted on the sector and we have seen a slowing down in activity in recent weeks, as the majority of people are playing a ‘wait and see’ game,” said Mark.

 “However, there is no better way to build confidence and generate a feel good factor than via a programme of investment, where people can see their city changing for the better.

 “That’s certainly the case here in Plymouth right now and should lift spirits in the commercial sector.”

     PAPPA Chairman Ben Dreher, a Director at Lawson Estate Agents, said that in terms of the residential market, buyers are still out there.

 He firmly believes the investment that continues to breathe new life into the city centre can only boost Plymouth’s credentials as a place to live and work.

 “It has always been, and always will be, a great place to raise a family and build a future. When you see the pace at which the city is changing for the better, it can only make that future look even brighter,” said Ben.

 “It is always worth remembering too that whatever political uncertainties are present, people will always have to move home, to relocate for work or to find a bigger property to start a family, for example.

 “I am hopeful that once the Brexit deadline had passed, the property market will return to more normal levels of activity. We just all need to keep the faith!”