Shropshire commercial property market shows signs of improvement12th February 2014

Shropshire property agents Halls have noticed an improvement in the county's commercial property market, as confidence slowly increases despite tough market conditions.

Demand from potential buyers and businesses looking to lease property means that James Evans, Hall's commercial manager in Shrewsbury, is actively seeking more property to meet his clients' requirements

James Evans has already had a good start to the year with the sale of the Deli on the Square in Ludlow, which he negotiated successfully even before the property came on the market.

Hall's has also completed two lettings deals in Shrewsbury. Rebecca Kearney, who is setting up her first hair and beauty salon business, Pure Brilliance, has taken a lease on retail premises at 59 Ellesmere Road. The unit, which has a 249 sq ft sales area, a staff room and onsite parking, was on offer for £5,000 a year and was previously occupied by a hairdresser.

Pukka Wines, who are based at the town's Wyle Cop, will be opening a Prosecco and Seafood Bar at 165 Frankwell, which they have just taken a lease on. The bar will create eight new jobs and is due to open on 20 February. Three more jobs will be created at the wine shop due to expansion of the business.

“Confidence is definitely returning to the market, which is reflected by the level of business that we completed in January alone,” said James Evans. “I am particularly seeking more properties in Shrewsbury, Ludlow and Telford as I have potential buyers wanting to invest and others looking to let.”