PUBLICATIONS

In this article, Christopher Kerr argues that while devolving power to regional mayors could unlock growth, it may also deepen deprivation along the coast unless coastal voices are built into decision-making from the start. From infrastructure gaps and poor health outcomes to the risks posed by local government reorganisation, Chris sets out four practical policy shifts needed to ensure devolution works for, not against, the UK’s coastline.

Sarah Galley, our Head of Operations, in the Cambridge University Land Society has shared her reflections on how real estate firms can adapt and act with purpose, not panic, to market change.

Economy, community and nature all need to work together. Christopher Kerr, our Head of ESG, says, “There is more to our growing blue economy than meets the eye,” highlighting the importance of balancing economic growth with thriving communities and healthy marine ecosystems.

BE News asked leaders from across the built environment industry to summarise 2025 in one word and share their hopes, fears and expectations for 2026.

Since its introduction in 2012, the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) has been revised no fewer than six times, with each iteration attempting to refine the balance between growth, sustainability, and local autonomy.

A new Davitt Jones Bould survey of over 100 senior local government real estate professionals has found that local government reorganisation (LGR), in which councils in two-tier areas – i.e. those governed at both County and District/Borough/City levels – will be replaced by a single-tier system of unitary authorities, will have a negative impact on regional estates management.