Title

COMMERCIALISM

MPs launch inquiry on local authority commercial investment

An inquiry examining investments in commercial property by councils has been launched by the public spending watchdog.

An inquiry examining investments in commercial property by councils has been launched by the public spending watchdog.

With figures showing local authorities spent £6.6bn on commercial properties in the past three years, the Public Accounts Committee is also calling for evidence on commercial skills in local government.

The committee will also question officials from the Ministry of Housing, Communities, and Local Government on how it formally monitors commercial activity and long-term exposure to risk.

The committee is also exploring how the coronavirus pandemic is impacting on local government finances. 

COMMERCIALISM

Housing: Give councils the tools to act

By Heather Jameson | 03 September 2026

Councils need greater borrowing flexibility to tackle housing pressures, says Heather Jameson.

COMMERCIALISM

Replumbing Britain's growth model: how to unlock place-based investment

By Katie Johnston | 03 September 2026

Katie Johnston looks at unlocking place-based investment by giving local leaders greater capital control.

COMMERCIALISM

Calls to ease borrowing restrictions in wake of homes buying blitz

By By Paul Marinko | 03 September 2026

Councils are demanding the Government ease borrowing restrictions to help them confront the nation’s housing crisis.

COMMERCIALISM

Councils bulk buying housing from developers to ease pressures

By Paul Marinko | 03 September 2026

With the housing market stalled, councils are bulk buying homes intended for private sale at huge discounts in a bid to ease their temporary accommodation co...

Popular articles by Laura Sharman