BARNARD Castle-based land agent Jonathan Wallis has been awarded a Fellowship of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (FRICS).
The award recognises his professional achievements and contributions to the industry and is an international measure of excellence.
He is one of just 6,000 fellows worldwide – representing 4.5 per cent of the total RICS membership of about 134,000 professionals.
Mr Wallis is an experienced land agent operating across Teesdale, the Yorkshire Dales, Durham, and Northumberland and has built a successful business over the past seven years after working for a major firm of chartered surveyors.
He initially worked from a bedroom in his home before moving firstly into an office at Startforth Community Centre – the converted former village primary school where he went – and then to larger premises on The Bank, Barnard Castle.
He specialises in rural property, with a particular focus on agricultural property, farms, and land.
He provides expert advice to landowners, tenants, and occupiers on a range of issues, including property valuation, landlord and tenant matters, claims involving utility companies, and land development for both residential and commercial purposes.
“I’m delighted to receive this honour, it’s a recognition not only for myself but also my clients and my staff too,” said Mr Wallis.
“I’m passionate about my work and I’m pleased that this has been highlighted by the RICS.”
One of his most unusual pieces of work is the current sale of Mirk Pot Woodland, a stunning 37-acre sanctuary nestled in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales.
This diverse woodland offers not only breathtaking beauty but also plays a vital role in supporting the red squirrel population, an iconic yet endangered species in the UK.
Mirk Pot Woodland, Snaizeholme, is a thriving ecosystem.
For wildlife enthusiasts, this is a once-in-a-lifetime chance to own land dedicated to conservation and ecological health.
Mr Wallis said: “Mirk Pot Woodland offers an unparalleled opportunity for those who want to make a real impact on wildlife conservation.
“The red squirrel is an endangered species, and by acquiring this land, buyers will be helping to preserve a critical habitat for them to thrive.
“This sale is more than just an investment – it’s a chance to leave a conservation legacy for future generations.”
He added: “There are parallels between this land and my fellowship.
“Receiving a fellowship is a mark of distinction for contributions to the profession, just as setting aside land for wildlife can be a recognition of the importance of biodiversity and conservation.”
