Government could face eco towns challenge

Bodies call for help ahead of NPPF and Budget

Campaigners have called on the government to deliver new planning guidelines which help deliver truly sustainable developments.

Crying wolf in the countryside

Councils urged to draw up development plans

Local authorities must ensure they are ready to take on new planning powers, the British Property Federation has warned.

Viable questions

Plan of action

England needs a coherent planning framework if it is to develop homes and communities which pass the test of time

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

Not a sticking plaster

Efforts to tackle anti-social behaviour can seem like fire fighting. It’s expensive to take a more comprehensive and long-term approach by working with a single family to get to the root of their problems. But, as Tony Powell, executive director of neighbourhoods at New Charter Housing Trust, explains, the effect can be transformative.

Bright ideas

Elderly and disabled people don’t have to live with ugly adaptations to their homes. Katie Puckett finds out about a contest shining a light on good design

Keeping tenants in mind

A recent ruling means landlords of supported living schemes could be denied benefit cash, says John Wearing, partner at Anthony Collins Solicitors

Fairytale ending?

As the third sector’s Cinderella services struggle in the face of cuts social landlords have the opportunity to ride in like the proverbial prince and rescue them.