Southampton: JLL and PPS group organise discussion of the city’s transformation

Property company JLL and specialist public relations agency PPS Group organised a recent discussion on the transforming of Southampton into a modern European city. More than 50 property professionals and the city's political leaders were involved.

The event featured a debate on development and regeneration in the city and was led by councillor Simon Letts, leader of Southampton city council, and councillor Jeremy Moulton, Conservative group leader. Both stressed the importance of the need for better infrastructure and transport links in order to realise the city’s ambition.

Andy Martin from PPS who chaired the sessions, said: "Both politicians were frank, open and realistic about the challenges facing the city. Whoever wins in May, we can be confident that not only do they know what needs to be done, they're rolling their sleeves up and preparing for action."

David Ramsay, planning and development director at JLL, who took part in the panel debate, said: “The council has an ambitious vision for the city and this event was an ideal opportunity for developers, architects and property advisors to hear first-hand how this could be delivered and what obstacles needed to be overcome.”

The debate also highlighted the council’s commitment to developing key sites in the city, including Bargate Shopping Centre, the fruit-and-vegetable market, Royal Pier and Ocean Village.