London & Associated Properties mourns long-standing chairman

Sir Michael Heller, chairman of London & Associated Properties (LAP), passed away on January 30 at the age of 86.

Sir Michael qualified as a chartered accountant before working with his father until 1970. He then joined the board of LAP in 1971 and became executive chairman in 1977.

He shifted the focus of LAP from investment in mining to real estate, with a particular interest in shopping centres.

LAP said it was “deeply saddened” by the loss of Sir Michael.

Sir Michael was knighted in the 2013 New Year Honours List for Philanthropy, and is survived by his wife, sons Andrew and John, and daughter Nicola.