The Scottish Property Federation (SPF) has announced Andrew Sutherland as its new Chairman.

Mr Sutherland is Joint Managing Director (MD) of Miller Developments and has over 30 years' experience in the property industry.

He will succeed current chairman, Paul Curran, Director of Edinburgh-based Quartermile Developments, at the SPF's Annual Dinner at the Edinburgh International Conference Centre later today, 08 November.

In his new role, the SPF said Mr Sutherland will campaign for the best possible regulatory and competitive platform for the real estate sector in Scotland to attract jobs and investment to the country's built environment.

As well as ensuring governments at all levels realise the benefits of boosting commercial property development activity north of the border, the organisation added Mr Sutherland will also support governments to position Scotland as a competitive location to potential investors.

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In addition, he will engage with the Scottish Government on ways to reduce the time required to complete developments in a new Planning Bill, which is expected to be introduced to Holyrood shortly.

David Melhuish, director of the SPF, said: "We are delighted Andrew Sutherland is taking up the role of Chairman of the SPF. Paul Curran has had a fantastic year, and Andrew picks up the role at a time of gathering engagement across Holyrood and Whitehall for SPF. His knowledge of planning and development matters working across the UK will be a huge benefit as we tackle the next Scottish Planning Bill.

"We now look forward to working with Andrew over the next year, continuing to strengthen our links with government and producing substantive industry evidence for our members, their investors and government alike, to ensure our own growth strategy benefits the property industry here in Scotland."

Speaking on his new role, Mr Sutherland said: "I am extremely pleased to be taking on the role as chairman of the SPF. I want to continue contributing and working hard to represent the interests of Scotland's commercial and residential markets to attract investors, speed up development times and improve our overall planning strategies.."

(LM)