One Man’s View 2026

Harvey M. Soning, FRICS, Chairman – James Andrew International Group of Companies   I first wrote a piece for this magazine in 2023 that property was the barometer of the UK economy. While I still believe this, there are marked differences, both north and south of the country and between the residential and commercial sectors. At the time I was expecting some casualties as interest rates rose. Perhaps fortunately, the banks have been restrained and, whilst there have been some foreclosures, they are thinking of the reputational damage of forced repossession and giving borrower’s time. Of course, it is difficult to talk about confidence without getting embroiled in politics, a subject best avoided in these pieces. Notwithstanding that the facts are the facts! In 2023 the Prime Minister was Rishi Sunak and the Conservative Party heading for an election. 3 years later we find ourselves with the second Labour Prime Minister. I am not sure the political musical chairs is good for busin...