Features

When 2+2=5

Bill Mackie of Cripps Harries Hall reviews a recent and important dispute on the calculation of land value

THE EXPERTS ANALYSE THE INDUSTRY

Housebuilder asked a series of experts to carry out a SWOT analysis on the housebuilding industry to crystallise their views of how they see the market today. At the beginning of what is set to be a crucial autumn period for the industry, we present the results of a fascinating exercise that provides an enlightening snapshot of the sector

Relieving the parking pressure by Total Parking Solutions

"A car that is locked away from vandalism, damage and theft could equal reduced insurance premiums" PAT HENSON, SALES MANAGER, TOTAL PARKING SOLUTIONS

Conservatories

Site appeal

Having announced this year’s 400 Quality Award winners the judges of NHBC’s 29th annual Pride in the Job Awards have a unique view of how operations on thousands of sites in the UK are faring during the downturn. Melissa Blamey reports on how high standards are now more important than ever in the current market and rounds up the regional views gleaned from the many site visits made by the judges

Elmhurst Energy

Autonomous assessment

The Long Sutton Autonomous House, to be occupied by the end of the year, is a different approach to Code level six, incorporating zero heating and body heat. Suzie Mayes finds out about the home which is part of a carbon neutral mixed-used scheme

Know your site’s planning history

Developers should ensure they are aware of the history of planning applications on a development site or they may encounter delays in the planning process, according to Jason Towell of solicitor Cripps Harries Hall

Probably the best UDC in the world

Urban development corporations are normally set up to stimulate development. But the West Northamptonshire DC is different. Even in these difficult times it is clear that this area of the south Midlands is going to be booming over the next few years, so its role is one of co-ordinating and facilitating the provision of, among other things, 50,000 new homes. Ben Roskrowreports

Rental adjustment

Is it time for housebuilders to take a serious look at getting involved in the private rented sector? With initiatives under way to boost new build for rent and to shake off the Rachman and Rigsby reputation, Mark Smulian looks at the opportunities