The Bridging & Development Lenders Association (BDLA) has provided initial details for its 2024 Annual Conference, which will take place in London on 7 November at RSA House.

The association, formerly known as the ASTL, has confirmed that the keynote speaker for the event will be journalist and broadcaster, Declan Curry. He has been reporting on business, the economy and politics for almost 30 years and appears frequently as a business commentator on LBC News, and occasionally on Classic FM and Capital Radio. He was a presenter, producer and reporter for a range of programmes on BBC radio and television.

At the BDLA Annual Conference, Declan will discuss topical issues that influence the bridging and development market, including thoughts on the first hundred days of the new UK government, the results of the US elections and the election for the new Conservative party leader.

The BDLA has also confirmed its second speaker for the Annual Conference, with Ed Hampson from Savills providing insights into the outlook for the UK property market. Further speakers for the event will be confirmed in the coming weeks.

The BDLA Annual Conference is an event specifically tailored to Members, Associate Members, and Guests of the BDLA. Members are entitled to two complimentary tickets, with additional member colleagues charged at £200 each.

Vic Jannels (pictured), CEO of the BDLA, said: “This will actually be the first Annual Conference under our new branding, the BDLA, but this event has gone from strength to strength in recent years under our former branding and has become a must-attend date in the diary for bridging and development lenders, as well as associated businesses within the sector.

“The 2024 BDLA Annual Conference will be no exception and we are delighted to confirm Declan Curry as our keynote speaker, particularly at a time when political matters will be so prominent within the headlines, coming just a few days after the US elections and a hundred days into the new UK parliament.

“We have also been able to confirm Ed Hampson from Savills, who always delivers an entertaining and insight-rich presentation into the outlook for UK property. This event is not to be missed and I would encourage all members and associate members of the BDLA to book their spot at our Annual Conference as soon as possible. Spaces are limited and you won’t want to miss out.”