SPF Annual Conference 2026

Back by popular demand, Professor Sir John Curtice returns to the SPF Annual Conference as a keynote speaker. His insights into voting behaviour and societal attitudes always spark lively discussion and will provide invaluable context for the sector, just few months ahead of the Scottish elections!

This session brings together representatives from across the political spectrum for a debate on the key issues shaping the run-up to the 2026 Scottish Elections. Contributors will explore the major policy priorities, and consider what each party’s approach means for Scotland’s economy and built environment. It promises a lively, timely and insightful discussion.

Confirmed Speakers:

• Cabinet Secretary for Housing, Màiri McAllan MSP, Scottish Government
• Willie Rennie MSP, Scottish Parliament 

This session examines how Scotland’s urban centres can evolve through the rise of the experience economy. We’ll look at the shift from traditional retail towards culture, leisure and mixed-use neighbourhoods, and discuss how experience-led environments can reinvigorate city centres, support communities and create long-term economic value.

Session Host: Sara Thaim, Chief Executive, Prosper

Confirmed Speakers: 

• Vicki Miller, Chief Executive, Visit Scotland
• Chris Stewart, CEO, Chris Stewart Group 
• Jo Buckley, Chief Executive, Dunard Centre

Session Sponsor: Auction House Scotland

This session highlights emerging sectors with strong potential for Scotland. In a Dragon’s Den–style format, each contributor will have around seven minutes to pitch their opportunity to an audience imagining they have £1m to invest. They’ll need to outline the scale of the opportunity and what it means for real estate. After the pitches and a short Q&A, the room will vote on which sector shows the greatest promise. Energetic, informative and a touch competitive.

Session Host: Cameron Stott, SPF Vice Chair, Head of Scotland, JLL 

Confirmed Speakers: 

• Stephen Lewis, Managing Director, HFD Property Group 
• Stuart Fyvie, Director and Co-Founder, Fire Arrow
• Calum MacPherson, CEO, Inverness & Cromarty Firth Green Freeport

This session moves the conversation on from legislation to action. With contributors from across government, investment, development and operation, it will explore the practical steps needed to address Scotland’s housing shortages, identify barriers to delivery, and consider how stronger collaboration can unlock new homes at scale.

Session Host: Robin Blacklock, Managing Director, Dowbrae Real Estate Consultancy

Confirmed Speakers: 

• Dan Batterton, Head of Housing, Legal & General 
• George Dyer, Group Investment Director, Watkin Jones