Miscellanea
Fall in UK architect numbers as EU applications halve
Just 477 architects joined the ARB via the EU route last year - down from 961 in 2019 and 1,232 in 2015.
How we measure energy efficiency in homes isn’t working
As the latest English Housing Survey reveals that the majority of homes in England have sub-standard energy efficiency ratings, Freya Wise of The Open University warns that "EPCs aren’t working", arguing…
English Housing Survey: Happy homeowners & poor energy efficiency
A selection of key findings from the recently-published 2019-20 English Housing Survey.
Could historic blue plaques put off buyers?
As English Heritage undertakes a review of London’s famous blue plaques, some buyers are now debating whether they want one on their property where it points to connections with slavery, colonialism…
Developer kits out Cornish lifeguards
Acorn has carried out some useful community engagement work at its new scheme in Constantine Bay.
Global HNW population booms, but not in the UK
The global millionaire population grew 6.3% in 2020, surpassing the 20-million bar, while total millionaire wealth grew 7.6% to tickle US$80 trillion.
House of Lords opens wide-ranging inquiry into the housing market
The new House of Lords Built Environment Committee has launched its first inquiry, with a view to understanding "what shapes the type of housing needed in the UK as well as a range of challenges to meeting…
Knotweed isn’t always the ‘bogey plant’ – RICS
New guidance aims to "dispel myths and misconceptions" about Fallopia Japonica, and "help unblock needlessly effected home sales".
Liverpool facing loss of World Heritage status
Unesco has recommended the city’s waterfront is removed from its list of world heritage sites, nine years after being deemed ‘at risk’.
‘London’s front door’: Oxford Circus to be transformed into two pedestrian piazzas
Oxford Circus is to be reinvented as a pair of "pedestrian-friendly piazzas" by the end of this year, according to new plans by Westminster City Council and The Crown Estate.
Insurer warns of ‘hidden flood threat’ for over 500,000 homes
Environment Agency flood risk maps "can downplay the dangers some properties face", says Zurich.
Winkworth signs up Ashworth to front new podcast series
National agency launches new series fronted by the high-profile writer & commentator.