Evaluating British science parks as property investment opportunities

Abstract

Reports reports the findings of a survey of science park managers and directors in the last quarter of 1994. The development of science parks in Britain has been heavily reliant on investment from public sector sources. A notable reluctance on the part of private sector investors has been a consistent feature. Science parks have, though, seen near continuous growth in their number, in total tenancies and in their rental and capital values; and have sustained relatively high average occupancy levels throughout their brief history. The findings of the survey, thus, draw attention to the various determinants of these apparent successes and highlight the manner in which these determinants may instil disquiet in private sector investors as to the prospects of science parks as investment opportunities. Finds that public sector patronage and philanthropic motives remain high on the agenda of science parks but growing recognizance of the need to secure commercial viability may expedite the improvement of their potential investment profile.