Partnership and collaboration hailed at Scottish Property Federation annual dinner

In an event attended by senior figures from across the Scottish real estate sector and the Scottish Government and Parliament, SPF chair Jonathan Guthrie renewed calls for partnership and collaboration as being the only way to get Scotland busy making work and creating jobs.

The speech comes at a pivotal moment for the sector, with the recent passing of the Housing (Scotland) Bill and ahead of the 2026 Scottish elections. While the Housing Bill has now been passed, Mr Guthrie believes it has highlighted the need to build long-term relationships to foster long-term prosperity.

It also highlighted to need to focus beyond housing and how the Scottish Government and the real estate sector can drive commercial growth, unlock urban regeneration and engage in meaningful and constructive dialogue around tax and regulation and improving development viability.

This includes how a renewed partnership approach could meet the challenge of increased demand for industrial space and data centres, plus how the work undertaken on stalled housing sites is contributing towards housing targets.

The event also honoured David Peck, managing director of Buccleuch Property, with its Lifetime Honorary Membership Award, recognising his outstanding contribution to Scotland’s property industry.

David has been a leading figure in Scottish real estate for more than 25 years, guiding Buccleuch Property through landmark developments and investments at home and abroad. Under his leadership, the business has celebrated significant growth, from delivering strategic land developments across Scotland to establishing major joint ventures such as Hanwood Park, one of the UK’s largest urban extensions.

Closer to home, Buccleuch Property has played a central role in shaping communities and investing in Scotland’s living, commercial, and mixed-use sectors. David’s long-standing partnership with Native Land has also helped deliver high-profile Scottish projects such as New Eidyn in Edinburgh’s St James Quarter, and Buccleuch have been central to the growth of a new community at Shawfair, on the edge of the city of Edinburgh.

David’s influence extends beyond his business. As a former chair of the Scottish Property Federation, he ensured the sector had a strong, collective voice during key moments for Scotland’s economy. He also initiated the SPF Annual Dinner, which has since become the flagship gathering of the Scottish property industry and the setting for this award.

In the period since, he has been a regular source of advice and support to successive SPF chairs and staff, generously sharing his insights with the Federation and the wider industry.

Commenting on the recognition, Robin Blacklock, SPF interim director, said: “David Peck has been at the forefront of Scotland’s property sector for decades. His leadership, integrity and commitment have not only delivered successful developments but also strengthened the industry’s ability to work together. This award celebrates both his achievements and the legacy he continues to leave for Scottish real estate.”