Pictured above: (l-r) Richard Ford, Senior Manager Commercial, Key Markets, Professor Carl Chinn, Darren Billinge, Relationship Manager, Key markets, Property, Andy Watts, Relationship manager, Key Markets, Property

More than 70 property professionals from across the West Midlands region attended an exclusive event last week at Aston Hall in Birmingham, which was hosted by Lloyds TSB Commercial.

Following the formation of a specialist property team in 2009 and lending growth of 10 per cent in 2010 to the sector, the team has recruited additional personnel and is again looking to further support the growth objectives of well-established property investors and developers located within a 50 mile radius of Birmingham city centre.

Attendees at the event heard how the dedicated Birmingham-based team is aiming to achieve lending growth of more than 15 per cent by the end of 2011. 

Presentations from the Lloyds TSB Commercial Key Markets Property team were followed by eminent guest speaker; renowned and highly respected local historian Professor Carl Chinn MBE. 

Alongside his tireless drive to champion the merits of Birmingham and the West Midlands in the media through his work as a magazine editor, radio presenter and newspaper columnist, Professor Chinn is also Professor of Community History at the University of Birmingham.

Addressing the audience of chartered surveyors, developers, property investors and landlords, Professor Chinn reflected upon the significance of the recent restoration and renovation of Aston Hall within the local community. 

Speaking at the event, Richard Ford, Senior Manager Lloyds TSB Commercial - Key Markets delivered the opening address. He said: 

"Following strong lending growth within the property sector on a local level last year, we are particularly keen to build further upon this success throughout the remainder of 2011. 

"Events such as this really help to reinforce our 'open for business' approach towards experienced property professionals who are looking to expand their existing portfolio within the wider Birmingham area."

The annual event also provided attendees with an ideal opportunity to network with likeminded individuals who operate within Birmingham and the wider West Midlands' property sector.