Faces on the frontline

Divided ambitions

When Eric Pickles axed the regional planning system, one Hertfordshire council seized the opportunity to scupper a neighbouring authority’s development plans. Simon Brandon kicks off our south east special by examining the consequences.

Cash questions

Can the public and banking sectors learn to understand each other before self financing begins, wonders Louise Dunne

Home grown

With rising food prices and a rapidly growing population, it’s time we all became self-sufficient. And social landlords can lead the way, says Bill Randall

Forward thinking

This year’s UK Housing Review by the Chartered Institute of Housing takes a look at how coalition government policies are affecting housing trends. Here, Hal Pawson, Steve Wilcox and John Perry give the lowdown on the report

Many happy returns?

Welcome flexibility

Two landlords have been named top employers for working families. Lydia Stockdale talks to one about how flexible time-keeping benefits managers and employees alike

Cold cottage rescue

Isolation from mains gas can spell financial hardship. Alex Turner investigates how Cornish landlords are exploring renewable energy solutions to rural fuel poverty

Don’t be partners in crime

Landlords must review their anti-corruption procedures and that of their partners or risk a large fine, says Kerry Gwyther, partner at TLT Solicitors

Harm’s way

A new tool will help landlords improve community life by tackling anti-social behaviour, says Sarah Pearson

Acting with conviction

Squatting could soon be criminalised but awareness of current laws is crucial, says Sarah Lines, social housing lawyer at Cobbetts