MUSE 40: ‘Who knows what the next 40 years will bring – but I expect Muse will lead the way.’

As part of our 40^th anniversary celebrations, we sat down with Executive Director and Head of UK Investment Properties at CBRE, Colin Thomasson. We spoke to Colin about his relationship with Muse, and the value of strong partnerships in the regeneration industry.

I first started working with AMEC Developments (which became Muse in 2007) in 1994, providing funding advice for a new office building to be known as The Observatory – the redevelopment of the Cross Street Chapel site in central Manchester. Soon after, I became involved in Cheadle Royal, which ultimately became the pre-eminent out-of-town business park in South Manchester.

Since it’s establishment in 2001, I have been proud to support Muse and ECF – the partnership between Muse, Homes England, and Legal & General – on numerous regeneration opportunities across the North and the Midlands.

CBRE has worked in partnership with ECF at Crescent Salford, St Helens Town Centre and Stockport 8, and with Muse in Prestwich Village, Arden Cross at the HS2 Interchange in Solihull, Islington Wharf, and City Place, Chester.

There is no question that delivering regeneration today is more complicated than it was 30 years ago. There is a greater emphasis on urban renewal, social value, environmental considerations, and creating high quality places where people can live, work and play. Recent economic challenges have also created viability issues, which needs creative and collaborative thinking.

Whilst regeneration may be more difficult, it is also more rewarding.

Muse has always responded to these changing demands – 40 years of delivery stand as testament to this. From the early years of out-of-town commercial regeneration to the urban renewal of today, Muse has never sought to stay comfortable or predictable.

Nevertheless, the same principles and culture continue to define the business. This culture has been ingrained in the company’s DNA since its inception as AMEC.

Every member of the team takes great pride in building long-term partnerships which drive genuine change. Trust, collaboration, and cultural fit are recognised as just as important to delivery as technical proficiency.

Muse knows how to engage with partners, draw out expertise, crystallise a vision, and deliver. I’m sure these principles will continue to shape and direct the business over the next 40 years.

New Bailey in Salford is a good example of the team’s values in practice. The regeneration of the area has dramatically changed Salford – for the better. New homes, workspaces, coffee shops, bars, and restaurants have injected energy and vibrancy. These transformative outcomes have been achieved by Muse with ECF championing a partnership-based approach.

At CBRE, we recognise our own partnership with Muse. We are empowered to give the best possible advice and support. We also have the confidence and trust to present our ideas, because we know the team and business so well – we understand the culture, the vision, and the way in which Muse drives value.