Jonathan Dobkin comments on the future of commercial property in Property Professional
Jonathan’s comments were published in Property Professional, issue 61, (page 10), on 3 November 2025, and can be seen here
Jonathan Dobkin, Partner in our Commercial Property department, shares his comments on adaptive reuse and the opportunities it presents for the sector.
Jonathan argues that real estate should be seen as “land disguised as buildings”, highlighting the untapped potential in existing structures. With 172,000 empty shops across the UK, 80% of which have been vacant for over two years, he sees a clear opportunity to repurpose these spaces rather than demolish and rebuild from scratch.
Jonathan explains: “Having a structure already in place that you can repurpose makes the process quicker.”
He advocates for a more creative vision in development, encouraging stakeholders to look beyond traditional approaches and embrace the possibilities of retrofitting empty commercial premises, including offices, schools, and retail units.
While acknowledging the need for surveys, removal of hazardous materials, and compliance with modern safety and planning regulations, Jonathan maintains that retrofitting offers a faster, more sustainable route to increasing housing stock and revitalising communities.
His comments come amid a broader industry debate, reignited by the controversial demolition of Marks & Spencer’s Oxford Street store. As developers weigh the benefits of retrofitting against the challenges of outdated infrastructure, Jonathan’s call for adaptive reuse resonates with a growing movement toward sustainability, efficiency, and urban regeneration.
Read the full article on the Property Professional website [subscription required].