AS WORK begins on the £1.2 million refurbishment of the former Time Offices at the Terry’s site in York, its developer has expressed optimism – in spite of political uncertainty.

S Harrison Developments Ltd was the first company to move on to the former chocolate factory site when it relocated its headquarters from Malton to York in 2007. Now its chairman, Martyn Harrison, is overseeing the refurbishment of the existing Grade II listed two-storey building. He is also supervising work on a third glazed storey, to provide the new headquarters, Stanley Harrison House, for his property and development firm.

He said: “As yet there are few signs of the market picking up, and in recent months the uncertainty around the election result hasn’t helped. “But the fact is property development will be one of the sectors leading us into recovery and we take an optimistic view. There are still good development opportunities out there for those with the vision to see them and the expertise to capitalise on them. We’ve a number of exciting projects on the go, and more in the pipeline.

“Getting the banks lending again remains one of the keys to recovery and that has to be a priority for the new government. We’re in the position where our sound financial management means we have reserves to fund development opportunities and we are keen to partner with others in the same situation. Inves-ting now in the new Stanley Harrison House is a reflection of our confidence, and indicative of our commitment to York and our determination to be well positioned as the economy recovers.”

When completed, the office will exceed the required CO2 emissions performance. And with air source heating, photovoltaic panel technology and solar powered water heating the building will be largely energy self-sufficient. The Harrison team has also devised green travel plans to minimise the traffic impact of the new offices.

Mr Harrison said: “We really do believe that this project provides the benchmark for sustainable development for the city.”

Tolent Construction has been appointed to carry out the building work, which is expected to be completed by September.