THE AGENTS

Konrad Szymanski

Director

Humberstones

At Humberstones we have observed that the property market is not slowing down in the immediate run-up to the smoking ban. If anything, the market is more buoyant than ever, even for traditional wet-led pubs.

There is, of course, a caveat in that the price must be correct, especially in the leasehold market.

Our opinion is that purchasers are adopting a "wait and see" attitude about the impact that the ban may have, but we are generally taking a positive stance. Pubs will always have a place in British culture in one form or another and the smoking ban is only one aspect of the trade that is currently promoting change.

In Wales, where the ban has been in force for a few months, it seems that licensees have been prudent in making provisions for customers to smoke, thereby retaining business. The only drawback we've heard about is the increase in noise levels in some town-centres as a result of people smoking outside.

Traditionally, local residents would be disturbed by customers at closing time, but now smokers sitting outside throughout the evenings are causing extra noise.

We must also be mindful that a large number of customers in those town centres with a "circuit" - a centre or square where there are several bars and pubs - will go outside to smoke in the street. Inside, such customers can be controlled by doorstaff, but once they are outside the premises, it is unlikely that doorstaff will be keen to get involved. Who will be responsible for policing these areas?

As property agents we will need to monitor trade closely after the ban to judge its effects. A drop in business could reflect initially in the value of the pub or bar.

However, we are maintaining a very positive frame of mind at Humberstones, as we genuinely feel that any initial drop in trade will soon return to former levels within a relatively short period.

Existing clientele will become familiar with the new rules and the smoke-free environment will attract customers who used to be reluctant to visit their local.