News

In a contentious decision that has drawn mixed reactions from the community, the Somerset Council planning committee has approved a significant housing development in Bridgwater—a 30-bed House in Multiple Occupation (HMO). Despite substantial concerns regarding flooding risks associated with the nearby Durleigh Brook, as well as potential exacerbation of existing parking issues, the proposal passed with...

In a significant legislative shift, homeowners in Yorkshire and across England should prepare for soaring council taxes on second homes, set to take effect in2025. Following in the footsteps of Wales and Scotland, where similar measures have been implemented, local authorities are gearing up to leverage the new powers granted by the government from early2024. This change allows councils to impose council...

In a significant shift reflecting the current climate of the UK commercial real estate market, St. James's Place Plc has announced plans to wind down three property funds, which hold a combined total of £1.84 billion in assets. This decision comes on the heels of difficulties faced by the firm following a year of suspended client redemptions in response to market volatility. The announcement not only...

A contentious proposal aimed at converting the Kent House nursing home in Broadstairs into a House of Multiple Occupation (HMO) is set to be the subject of heated discussions among local councillors next week. Submitted by N & I Holdings Limited, the application to transform the nursing home—which historically catered to elderly residents and individuals suffering from dementia—into a 21-bed HMO has...

In a decisive move to enhance the welfare of vulnerable populations, the City of Edinburgh Council has announced an urgent plan to relocate over 700 homeless residents currently living in unlicensed accommodations, including hotels and bed and breakfasts. This relocation effort comes amid growing concerns regarding health and safety standards, as these 28 properties do not meet the legal requirements for...

In a significant stride for the UK property investment landscape, Catella APAM has successfully raised £102.2 million to launch a new investment fund targeting publicly listed property companies across the UK. This innovative fund aims to address identified mispricing opportunities within the property sector, suggesting that there is untapped potential for growth and returns for savvy investors who can...

In an exciting culinary development, Dave's Hot Chicken is preparing to launch its first location in the United Kingdom, raising a mix of enthusiasm and caution regarding British consumers' spice tolerance. The famed chain, known for its fiery dishes that cater to spice lovers, is keenly aware that some of its signature offerings might be a shock to the taste buds of UK diners, who may not be accustomed to...

In a significant move reflecting ongoing concerns over housing density, Belfast City Council has recently rejected a new House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) application for a property situated at 10 Sandymount Street in the Stranmillis area. The council's decision was largely based on findings that the number of HMOs in Stranmillis has surpassed acceptable levels, indicating a notable trend of overprovision...

Foundation Home Loans has made a significant move in the mortgage market, unveiling competitive Buy to Let Specials that are set to launch on 12th November2024. This new selection features tailored options across two distinct tiers—F1 and F2—allowing borrowers to find suitable products based on their credit history and property types. The F1 tier caters to individuals with near-perfect credit...

In a significant enforcement action against rogue landlords, Northampton authorities have imposed fines exceeding £400,000 for serious violations related to operating unlicensed Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs). This crackdown was prompted by alarming breaches of fire safety regulations, tenant rights violations, and poor property maintenance identified in eight properties across several areas,...