THE owner of a major property company in Dorset has called on the local industry to continue adapting to the 21st century.

Mickey Jones, owner of DJ Property Ltd based in Weymouth, was speaking at a meeting of the Weymouth and Portland Chamber of Commerce as he discussed the changing business needs and requirements in south and west Dorset.

Mr Jones presented the historic position when Weymouth was typically mixed retail with lots of pubs, quite a few restaurants and the growth of cafes was in its early stages around 15 years ago.

Many business premises had upper floor offices, limited residential on upper floors and many upper floors not used at all, and industrial estates still accommodated quite a bit of heavy industry, light industry Now, many out-of-town business parks in south Dorset include more niche light engineering firms, plus large retail stores.

Mr Jones said that one of the main reasons for the shift in business needs was because of the importance of infrastructure for local businesses such as internet and road links, and cost.

Mr Jones, chief executive of DJ Property, said: “Factors leading to the change in the demand of the type of commercial property required included the internet which has allowed flexible working, where internet speed is key, and home working becomes a real possibility.

“Small business rates relief has been a welcome introduction for smaller businesses but business rates continue to rise as businesses expand with no direct benefit.”

In town centres such as Weymouth, Mr Jones said his firm now viewed business premises as too costly to buy and renovate, and the firm looks to develop the upper floors of retail or office spaces into accommodation.

Mr Jones also said the tourism industry in Weymouth had changed over the years, and that more evens such as Challenge Weymouth should be held in the town.

He added: “With the decline of UK manufacturing and engineering it has led to a decreasing demand for buildings over 15,000 sq ft, however, there has been a growth of the service sector where there has been a demand for trade counters and online retailing.

“New tourism in the form of cruises and mass participation events such as Weymouth-based triathlons has all boosted the local economy.”