Development
The following are examples of both commercial and residential development projects James has worked on where significant uplifts were generated through securing valuable planning consents.
Chancery Lane, London
Identified and secured the acquisition of a 28,000 sq ft office building in need of refurbishment or redevelopment. At the time of acquisition the building had 2 years unexpired on the lease and was producing a yield of 10.75% at the purchase price of c£6m. It was decided a completely new development was best, rather than a cosmetic refurbishment. Planning permission was secured for a new 38,000 sq ft office building which was designed up to RIBA Stage D/E ready for tendering. The property was sold with the benefit of the new design and planning permission at a price of c£11m. James oversaw the entire process: identifying the acquisition, all planning and design through to negotiating and handling the disposal.
London Road, Isleworth
In conjunction with Barton Wilmore, James orchestrated the master-planning of the residential redevelopment of this brownfield site which comprised an outdated office building and additional sports fields. Detailed design was then undertaken and planning permission secured for a residential development. This comprised 195 flats and houses that maximised site value (c£12m). He subsequently negotiated the sale of the land to Bellway Homes and the Section 106 Agreement. The site has now been developed by Bellway Homes.