The pace of improvement has gathered speed in Leeds after a significant rise in first quarter take up. The pattern appears to be healthy enough with an ability to weather the worst of the economic downturn followed by an increase in activity as confidence picks up. Given the acute shortage of prime office spaces it would appear that Leeds is set for a good run. This also applies to the industrial property market where 2012 saw a rise in deals for larger warehouses which has continued into 2013, encouraging hopes that a genuine surge in the economy is not far away. The problem then will be finding sufficient prime office and industrial space to sustain such a recovery. In the meantime, developers are shoring up the market for Grade A offices by refurbishment, often to a very high standard. This may be more suitable space for start ups and TMT companies. Another important aspect of the market is the activity of local developers, such as the Gregory Group and Onward Holdings. They understand their market so they can make an impact with the town centre schemes in Halifax and Harrogate. Such companies are a major factor in improving the local economy. It is also noticeable how local councils are playing a vital role in smoothing the way for regeneration schemes, such as in Doncaster and Rotherham. In some cases they are offering financial inducements to locate in town centres. We must all hope that the battle to revive town centres will be won.