Commercial property investment still makes sense as part of a diversified portfolio, according to a partner at Bloomsbury Financial Planning.

Jason Butler said investors "piled into" commercial property during the boom period when prices were continuing to rise.

As values dropped sharply in recent years, many had their fingers burnt and as a result are reluctant to re-enter the market.

However, provided commercial property forms part of a well-balanced portfolio of investments, Mr Butler said there is no reason why it cannot be a sensible choice.

"Commercial property as part of a fully diversified portfolio still makes sense and has always made sense," he remarked.

However, he warned investors not to let it exceed the equity component of their overall investment mix.

According to the Guardian, the chief executive of Land Securities, Francis Salway, said recently that the commercial property sector is facing "one of the most challenging periods in generations".