People and places

12 January 2021

Although a third lockdown was imposed last week, the UK government is concerned that people are not complying with regulations such as social distancing as closely as they did last March.

This is despite current record levels of infection, hospital admissions and, sadly, deaths.

There are calls for tighter restrictions to be imposed, like prohibiting non-essential takeaway food and drink sales, and stopping house sale viewings.

Some are also suggesting that all but essential construction sites should be closed – which would be a substantial blow to demand for hired equipment. Let’s really hope that proves not to be necessary.

Concern is obviously greatest regarding people’s behaviour in the most densely populated areas. Many non-essential retailers such as restaurants, cafes, hairdressers, gyms and shops are wondering when some sort of normality will return so that consumers – especially those currently instructed to work from home – will start visiting and purchasing again. 

However, here are a couple of developments that give confidence. First, last week it was announced that the London skyscraper affectionately known as the ‘Cheesegrater’ had achieved a record office rent for the City of London.

A tenant has agreed to pay £110 per sq ft for the top floor that offers panoramic views. This suggests that the best properties will remain desirable.

And yesterday, the Chancellor Rishi Sunak told a radio interviewer that he believed workers would return to offices because they are social animals who value interaction with others.

There will inevitably be changes in work and life patterns but perhaps they will not be as far-reaching as some predict.

Certainly, from my conversations with hirers who plan to open new depots in towns and cities this year, demand for equipment remains resilient.

Photo:Pixabay