• Be First has appointed the property manager to provide operational services across part of the council’s portfolio, which is predominantly retail parades.

Be First, the urban regeneration agency of the London Borough of Barking & Dagenham (LBBD), has appointed SHW to provide operational property management services across 250 commercial and mixed-use assets in the council’s portfolio.

The assets are predominantly retail parades. The appointment supports Be First’s commercial and regeneration objectives, including income generation for public services, support for local businesses and future investment across the borough.

SHW’s role will cover tenant liaison, property maintenance, inspections, compliance management and lease administration. Be First will continue to lead strategic asset management, investment and development of the portfolio.

Matt Seaton, senior development manager at Be First, said: “Following a competitive procurement process, we are pleased to appoint SHW to support the management of part of this commercial property portfolio. Their experience, professionalism and value for money stood out throughout the tender process, and we look forward to working together to support local businesses, manage our assets effectively and deliver inclusive growth across the Borough.”

Justin Dyer, partner and head of London commercial property at SHW, said: “This appointment represents an exciting opportunity for SHW’s Commercial Property Management team, and we are pleased to be partnering with, and supporting Be First as they advance their mission to strengthen the borough’s commercial landscape.”

The appointment forms part of Be First’s work to maximise the value and impact of the council’s commercial assets, so that they continue to support economic growth, employment and regeneration in Barking & Dagenham.