Turning unwanted offices into much-needed homes

Article Abstract:

The UK's Department of the Environment seems to favour the policy of turning some of the UK's large stocks of unused office space into flats. However, such a broad policy needs careful perusal as it could spoil commercial sites in some areas and many buildings are unsuitable for domestic occupation. In London alone, a survey shows that under 10% of speculative office space will be viable within the coming five years, while another report puts new home demand in the UK at just over 200,000/year, and estimates 1992 housing starts at just 130,000 units.

United Kingdom, Usage, Supply and demand, Housing, Housing policy, Office buildings, Land use

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Plots & plans

Article Abstract:

It has become increasingly common in the UK for leading housebuilders to purchase strategic land. In many cases, they take out on option on land which is currently being cultivated. This gives them control of the land for a fixed period, and allows them to promote its development. The landowner agrees to waive a proportion of the price paid when planning permission is obtained. After planning permission is granted, the housebuilder will buy the land, often in stages. This approach creates a number of challenges for smaller housebuilders.

Management, Construction industry, Residential construction, House construction

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