Latest letters
The current CVA process is not fit for purpose
For many years, I have represented tenants against landlords, mainly in the retail and leisure industry, by restructuring leases often at reduced rents or with rent-free periods. In many cases, the alternative is that tenants fail to pay rent, which leaves landlords with empty properties.
More must be done to boost retirement living supply
As shown by Greater Manchester Combined Authority’s recent call for developers and planners to focus on ‘rightsizing’ rather than downsizing when building housing for older people, the residential sector’s attempts to meet the needs of this demographic are woefully inadequate.
Online sales tax could be a lose-lose for all retailers
The call by Tesco chief executive Dave Lewis for the Chancellor to introduce a 2% levy on goods sold via the internet illustrates the anguish experienced by many high street retailers operating from physical stores.
SDLT surcharge could cost the UK economy dearly
The proposed 3% SDLT surcharge for foreign nationals is an ill-conceived policy (p29, 05.10.18). While it is laudable to want to help the homeless, this policy does it in a way that is going to cost the UK far more than it helps.
Right and wrong moves from May
The prime minister certainly wasn’t dancing around the issues at the Conservative Party conference, even if her dancing did leave a lot to be desired at times.
Proptech needs better dialogue
It was great to see Coyote’s Oli Farago emphasise the need for true dialogue between the property and technology communities.
Clarity needed on EU procurement after Brexit
In nearly six months, the UK is expected to leave the EU and concerns are understandably mounting.
Private sector can help deliver affordable homes
Labour’s call to build hundreds of thousands more high-quality affordable homes is one most would agree with.
We must create diversity of housing and tenure
The impact of the global financial crisis that led to the crash in the UK housing market in 2008-09 is still being felt a decade later.
Developers must take connectivity into their own hands
Technology is undoubtedly improving the efficiency of our homes – from smart meters and smart lighting to the connected fridge. But what does this mean for property developers?
Urban logistics: UK should follow Europe’s lead
Property Week’s logistics market census highlights the industry’s growth in the face of mounting pressures on available land and rising costs (07.09.18).
Tax occupied not vacant properties
Barry Jervis and Ben Humphreys are right to warn landlords and corporate occupiers to be prepared for a legislative changeto empty rates following the decision in Principled Office Logistics vs Trafford Borough Council (31.08.18).
