"For architecture and engineering firms, finding skilled talent is critical - but the cost of employing that talent can vary widely between markets. "

"Corporate real estate strategy within architecture and engineering sectors is being reshaped by a combination of talent constraints, cost pressures, proximity to clients and client expectations, as well as technological change. "

"Access to specialist talent is the primary driver of real estate strategy for A&E firms. As competition for skills intensifies, understanding which locations offer the strongest and most sustainable talent pools becomes critical to long-term portfolio planning."

"Office portfolio strategy across A&E sectors remains in flux. While some firms are expanding in response to growth opportunities, others continue to reassess footprint size in light of evolving working patterns and market conditions, with regional variances."

"Where the canals powered the region’s industrial might through the 18th century, today a new transport revolution is taking place. HS2 is the most high-profile aspect of this, but there is an abundance of opportunity across the West Midlands which is being facilitated by other transport improvements. "

"Urban agglomeration makes places, firms and people more productive though sharing, matching and learning effects."

"Over the past decade, since HS2 was first announced, Birmingham’s city centre has begun to move eastward, driven by major regenerationprojects and infrastructure investment. The area is seeing significant growth in both its commercial and leisure offerings, anchored not onlyby the arrival of Curzon Street Station, but also by local transport links and the unique character of space offered in the area."

"Better transport links into Birmingham city centre and between the urban centres of the West Midlands will fuel the demand for commercial space in the CBD, but will also facilitate development for multiple uses outside the centre around these new transport nodes."