News

In a decision that has sparked considerable debate, Somerset Council's planning committee has approved a controversial 30-bed House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) on Friarn Street in Bridgwater. The approval, secured by a vote of seven to three, has ignited local concerns about potential flooding risks and parking shortages in an area already grappling with infrastructure challenges. Despite criticism from...

In a call for increased protections against the proliferation of houses in multiple occupation (HMOs), residents of East Durham have united, presenting a petition to the local council. With 153 signatures, this grassroots movement highlights the disparity in regulations between East Durham and more urbanised areas like the city centre, where additional safeguards are in place. Seaham councillor Kevin Shaw...

As the UK grapples with a persistent housing crisis, alternative housing solutions are gaining prominence. Among these, co-living spaces are emerging as a compelling choice for a diverse range of tenants. Niki Kyriacou from the National House Building Council (NHBC) underscored this trend, revealing that while co-living has not yet seen explosive growth, especially compared to traditional housing segments,...

In November 2024, preparations are ramping up for the impending changes to council tax regulations in England regarding second homes. Set to take effect in April 2025, the increase represents a significant policy shift aimed at addressing housing shortages in popular locales by proposing a potential 100% tax increase on properties that are not a primary residence. This article delves into the implications...

The UK real estate market is projected to experience a revitalization in 2024, driven by several macroeconomic factors. With anticipated interest rate cuts and a decrease in inflation rates, the investment landscape is expected to improve, particularly in the commercial property sector. Industry experts, including Oliver, the Director of Economics and Research at Colliers, and John, head of the National...

The City of Edinburgh Council has taken decisive action to address the growing crisis of homelessness in the city by unveiling an urgent plan to relocate individuals currently housed in unlicensed temporary accommodations, aiming for completion by the end of November2024. This move comes in response to a significant increase in the number of residents depending on these emergency housing solutions,...

Aamer Shah has submitted an ambitious planning application to Trafford Council seeking to transform a two-bedroom semi-detached house on Barton Road, Stretford, into a multi-bedroom house of multiple occupation (HMO). This proposal aims to address housing demands in the area while incorporating measures designed to mitigate potential anti-social behavior and noise disruptions. Shah asserts that issues...

In a contentious decision, the Somerset Council's planning committee recently greenlit plans for a 30-bed House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) on Friarn Street in Bridgwater. This approval has sparked a backlash from local councillors and residents concerned about potential flood risks posed by the nearby Durleigh Brook, as well as mounting parking problems in the area. Bridgwater Town Council leader Brian...

Residents of Hackney Road in Fant, Maidstone, are enduring renewed disruptions as they face another road closure, just four months after a significant sinkhole incident. In July, a 10-foot deep sinkhole emerged due to a collapsed sewer, forcing the local council to close the road for a month while extensive repairs were conducted. Now, the area is being dug up again by UK Power Networks, following a power...

In recent months, the buy-to-let property market has faced significant headwinds, showing declining trends that have led many potential investors to reconsider their strategies. With both buy-to-let purchases and mortgage lending on the downturn, the scenario prompts a critical evaluation of investment options available to aspiring landlords. This article aims to explore these declining trends in the...