One of the things making predicting the future so difficult is that the data on the recent past continues to surprise.

As Gordon Hood reports, Savills Reading has seen 152 per cent more people register an interest in its rental properties in the second half of 2020 compared to the same period in 2019.

Last year, he said, was an exceptionally busy one. Many couples, previously living apart, are moving in together, perhaps fearing long periods of separation if recent lockdowns continue.

It’s interesting to note that people are guarding against uncertainty in this way. Perhaps they will be less gung-ho and more risk averse in the future. If that is reflected in the business world it would seem likely to dampen ambitions.

But connectivity to London remains a high priority for those seeking to rent which seems to suggest a certain confidence that recovery is anticipated.

With so many schemes ready to go ahead, so many occupiers eyeing their next move, as noted by Steve Head and Jonathan Mannings, investment on the scale of the East-West Rail and Crossrail, the Thames Valley is like a coiled spring.

A clear path out of the current crisis, demanded by increasing numbers of MPs, would go a long way to making things happen.

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