HTA Real Estate bolsters team

HTA Real Estate has appointed Richard Scott as director, boosting its industrial property expertise as the firm nears a record year of transactions.

Based in Newcastle, Richard brings experience from Savills, Cushman & Wakefield and Sanderson Weatherall. 

He joins founders Nick Atkinson and Simon Hill, alongside investment director Douglas Cranston, who recently joined to lead acquisitions and disposals.

Richard said: “Economic factors such as the increase in the rate of employers’ National Insurance contributions has led to some companies putting potential expansion plans on hold and the Trump tariffs are also creating some uncertainty in the global financial markets which hinder investment decisions.

“Despite these headwinds, the industrial sector remains the strongest of the commercial property markets with healthy levels of demand for good quality stock. 

“There continues to be a shortage of supply across almost all size ranges, so new development is essential to accommodate the requirements of expanding businesses in the region and companies looking to invest here. 

“I am very pleased to be joining HTA Real Estate, which boasts an excellent reputation and a very strong instruction book.”

Since its 2013 launch, HTA Real Estate has been integral to major regional industrial projects. 

In the past year, it has handled over 875,000sq ft of deals, including a 139,000sq ft letting to JATCO at IAMP for Sunderland City Council.

Recent deals include a 107,775sq ft letting to Wolseley Group at Greenbox, in Darlington, with further units available at Greenbox, Drum Industrial Estate and Turbine Business Park, in Washington.

Simon added: “We have had an excellent year so far and we are on course for a record year of deals in 2025. 

“Richard is a very highly regarded operator and will play an instrumental role in the growth of the firm in the years ahead. 

“We are delighted to bring him onboard.”

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