In Short:
– Jace Tyrrell discussed promoting London to global capital markets during “The Connector” with Belinda Coates.
– Key investment areas include Build-to-Rent, the experience economy, and integrating lessons from global cities like Riyadh.

In this episode of The Connector, host Belinda Coates features Jace Tyrrell from Opportunity London, focusing on the transformation of London’s investment landscape due to global capital collaboration.Tyrrell recently completed a five-week delegation across Asia and the Middle East, visiting cities to promote London to global investors. The primary aim was to secure the next £100 billion in capital investment, resulting in promising deals for the city.

Urban planning

In Tokyo, Tyrrell noted innovative workspace designs, particularly Nomura’s global headquarters, which prioritised employee well-being. His visit to Hong Kong revealed effective transport and urban planning, with interest in applying similar development strategies in London’s Victoria and Waterloo stations.

In Riyadh, Tyrrell observed a significant cultural shift and vast investment in heritage sites. He praised the youthful workforce, many educated abroad, contributing modern skills to Saudi Arabia’s growth.

Despite facing recent challenges, Tyrrell believes London has overcome hurdles, focusing on capital deployment and projected transactions of approximately £15 billion this year. Opportunity London highlighted its successes over the past year, aiming for a revitalised, dynamic London by 2026. Tyrrell plans to visit Australia in February 2026.

In Short:
– Australia’s data center market is accelerating, with $6.7 billion in investment and notable international operators entering the space.
– The UK’s data center market is booming due to AI adoption, with over $44 billion invested and major projects announced.

Australia and the UK are witnessing significant growth in their data center markets, attracting considerable investment. In 2024, Australia ranked second globally for data center investment, allocating $6.7 billion. Increased interest from international operators complements strong local companies like CDC and AirTrunk.

Eleanor Kwak, a partner at Johnson Winter Slattery, supports investors in navigating regulatory frameworks and transactions, amid a more engaged government facilitating these developments. The National AI Plan aims to expedite data center projects, while the Foreign Investment Review Board oversees security concerns related to foreign investment. The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission is intensifying scrutiny on competition in digital infrastructure.

Planning reforms

In the UK, accelerated growth is underpinned by AI adoption and digital transformation. Recognised as “critical national infrastructure,” data centers benefit from planning reforms prioritising grid access. Investment in this sector has reached over $44 billion, with the market expected to nearly double by 2028.

Louisa Curcio, a partner at Rider Levett Bucknall in London, highlights the need for early involvement in projects to enhance flexibility. Here, power availability remains a constraint, compelling companies to adopt sustainable practices while navigating regulatory challenges. Global trends indicate increased community engagement and varying regulatory environments influencing investment strategies across regions.

In Short:
– Melbourne Airport, a vital national infrastructure, supports future growth with property development for aviation and logistics.
– The airport’s sustainability initiatives include a large solar farm and plans for a direct flight to London.

In this episode of The Connector, Belinda Coates hosts a discussion with Stuart Verrier, Property Development and Asset Manager at Melbourne Airport. They explore the airport’s role as a vital transport hub that influences city identity, investment, jobs, and global connectivity.Spanning 2,750 hectares, Melbourne Airport ranks among the largest globally and serves as a site for significant property development. It aims for a long-term aviation capacity of up to 115 million passengers, necessitating enhanced terminals and facilities. This strategy focuses on delivering value for owners under an 80-year ground lease.

Airports are evolving into multi-purpose destinations, integrating entertainment, retail, and health facilities. However, development is constrained by regulations that prohibit residential projects. Urban Surf, Australia’s first surf park at the airport, posed challenges such as construction difficulties and wildlife management.

Potential for growth

Melbourne Airport is well-positioned globally due to its potential for growth, contrasting with Sydney Airport, which has limited capacity. The approach prioritizes sustainable, high-density developments, such as the billion-dollar CSL vaccination facility, and reinforces its status as Australia’s largest fresh meat exporter.

The airport’s integration of sustainability initiatives and its extensive private solar farm enhances its appeal for future developments, including data centers. Economic impacts are profound, with every new international flight service contributing approximately $100 million. High-speed rail to Sydney remains uncertain, but a direct flight from Melbourne to London is anticipated soon.