UK still an attractive destination for international real estate investors

OVER the years as leader of a London Council and as deputy mayor of London, I have been privileged to witness the transformation of vast tracts of derelict and tired real estate into vibrant and thriving communities, such as Docklands. In the same way I have been impressed to see how the Urban Redevelopment Authority has led the drive to upgrade, preserve and rejuvenate some of Singapore's most iconic areas, like the beautiful river, Chinatown and the civic district.

The UK and Singapore have a shared interest in both acknowledging our architectural heritage and planning ahead so that our increasing populations have access to sustainable, intelligent homes and offices in our small island environments. For planners in Singapore and the UK this is an exciting challenge.

In a volatile global economy, commercial real estate generally remains a safe asset for investors. So I am delighted to be back in Singapore to meet Singaporean investors who share that view. It is natural that they are considering the implications for their investments in the UK after the historic outcome of our EU membership referendum.