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CPOs consultation launched
The government has published a consultation that aims to make the compulsory purchase of land clearer, fairer and faster. The reforms include lengthening the minimum period of notice for a CPO and extending powers to survey land being considered for CPO.
Government to pay market rents
Public sector occupiers are to be forced to pay market rents for state-owned office space under radical plans to promote more efficient use of space and accelerate disposals. A new central body will be set up to administer the system.
Chancellor devolves to mayor
New powers will be granted
to the London mayor to accelerate housing development and promote growth in the capital. The mayor will receive more control over planning and skills and funding for projects.
Regional housing zones coming
Some 20 housing zones are to be established outside London, accommodating 34,000 homes. The new zones include south Bristol, Derby, Stoke-on-Trent and Gloucester. The government is also working with eight shortlisted areas in addition to the 20 announced.
£7m earmarked for Croydon
Croydon is to receive £7m to support the development of its growth zone. The money could be used to unlock infrastructure projects and boost housing. The government estimates that this money will produce more than 4,000 homes and 10,000 jobs.
Crackdown on multinationals
The government will introduce a bill next week to stop multinationals using foreign branches to reduce their taxes. New penalties and criminal prosecutions will also be introduced for firms that aid tax evasion. The policy, dubbed the Google Tax, was first announced in last year’s Autumn Statement.
