Tag Archive for: Breaking News

Museum of London building with scaffolding, facing demolition.

High Court Dismisses Legal Challenge Against Museum of London Demolition

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The High Court has dismissed a legal challenge against the demolition of the former Museum of London to make way for new office blocks. The ruling allows the City of London Corporation’s redevelopment plans for the London Wall West site to proceed, despite a minor procedural breach identified by the judge.

Key Takeaways

  • A legal challenge against the demolition of the former Museum of London has been dismissed by the High Court.
  • The ruling permits the City of London Corporation’s plans to build three new office blocks on the site.
  • While a breach of statutory duty was found regarding pre-application document accessibility, it did not affect the lawfulness of the decision.
  • The development aims to provide significant new office space and public realm improvements for the City.

Legal Challenge Fails

Barristers representing BQO, the group behind the legal challenge, argued that the City of London Corporation failed to adhere to Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations concerning impartiality and objectivity. They also contended that the Corporation misunderstood or misapplied policy by presuming buildings would be reused rather than demolished, and that alternatives to demolition were not adequately considered. However, Mr Justice Fordham dismissed all three claims.

Breach Identified, But Decision Upheld

Mr Justice Fordham did identify a breach of statutory duty concerning the Corporation’s failure to make pre-application documents inaccessible. Despite this, the judge noted that this procedural issue did not necessarily impact the decision-making process, rendering the final outcome lawful. The court found that the Corporation’s policy did not impose a presumption against demolition, nor did it mandate further inquiries into alternative development proposals.

Project Details and Corporation’s Response

The scheme involves demolishing the former Museum of London and Bastion House to construct three buildings ranging from five to 17 storeys. The project also includes extensive public realm works, aiming to contribute to the City’s target of 1.2 million square metres of additional office floorspace by 2040. A City of London Corporation spokesperson welcomed the decision, stating that the development will be crucial for the Square Mile’s future growth, providing high-quality, sustainable office space and creating capacity for thousands of jobs. The development will also enhance public space, introduce a cultural area, and improve access to historical features like the Roman Wall.

Objectors’ Disappointment

A spokesperson for BQO expressed disappointment with the outcome but maintained that raising their concerns was necessary and justified. They acknowledged the judge’s finding of a breach of statutory duty regarding objectivity but noted that the permission remained lawful due to the lack of impact on the final decision. While respecting the court’s process, BQO believes the judgment highlights the importance of strong evidence regarding demolition options and the critical role of climate change impact in applying sustainability policy.

Sources

New housing developments under construction near a city.

UK Government Unveils Seven New Towns to Tackle Housing Crisis

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The UK government has announced plans to build seven new towns across the country, aiming to deliver a significant boost to housing supply. This ambitious initiative is set to create tens of thousands of new homes, with a focus on affordable housing and integrated community infrastructure. The locations have been carefully selected to maximise impact and connectivity.

Key Takeaways

  • Seven new town locations have been confirmed across the UK.
  • Each town is expected to deliver at least 10,000 homes, with some exceeding 40,000.
  • A minimum of 40% affordable housing is targeted for each development, with half of that for social rent.
  • The government is providing funding and support for masterplanning, infrastructure, and development vehicles.

New Town Locations Revealed

The government has identified seven key sites for these new developments, marking the most significant building push in over half a century. These locations are:

  • Tempsford, Bedfordshire: Set to be developed around a new East West Rail station, connecting residents to major cities like Cambridge, Oxford, and London.
  • Crews Hill and Chase Park, Enfield, London: This site aims to deliver up to 21,000 homes.
  • Leeds South Bank, West Yorkshire: Expected to provide up to 20,000 new homes.
  • Manchester Victoria North, Greater Manchester: Planned to offer at least 15,000 homes, with a new Metrolink stop for enhanced connectivity.
  • Thamesmead, Greenwich, London: A riverside location that will see up to 15,000 homes, unlocked by the extension of the Docklands Light Railway.
  • Brabazon and the West Innovation Arc, South Gloucestershire: This development is projected to deliver up to 40,000 homes.
  • Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire: The city will be expanded by approximately 40,000 homes, alongside a new city centre transport system.

Addressing the Housing Shortage

Housing Secretary Steve Reed stated that the initiative aims to provide “real homes they can actually afford and infrastructure that really works.” The new towns are designed from the ground up to include homes, jobs, transport links, and green spaces, fostering thriving communities. This strategy is part of a broader commitment to build 1.5 million new homes over the next parliamentary term.

Support and Funding

The government will offer resources and capital funding, including grants, loans, and guarantees, to support the development of these new towns. A dedicated “new towns unit” will be established to provide support and coordination across departments. Additionally, the new Homes England National Housing Bank, with £16 billion in capital, will play a crucial role in financing these projects. The government is prepared to use compulsory purchase orders if necessary to ensure progress.

Potential Names Under Consideration

While final names are yet to be decided, potential options being considered include Elizabethtown (after Queen Elizabeth II), Pankhurst (after suffragette Emmeline Pankhurst), and Attleeton (after former Labour Prime Minister Clement Attlee), reflecting a nod to historical figures and national heritage.

Sector Reaction

Industry bodies have welcomed the announcement, emphasising the need for ambition and collaboration to deliver housing at scale. Concerns have been raised about ensuring viability and removing barriers to delivery, particularly regarding infrastructure and diverse housing tenures.

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Google AI speeds up UK planning and home building.

AI Revolutionises UK Planning: Google Partnership Promises Faster Approvals and More Homes

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The UK government is collaborating with Google to introduce ‘Extract’, a cutting-edge AI tool designed to significantly accelerate planning application processes. This initiative aims to streamline administrative tasks, reduce processing times for local councils, and ultimately support the delivery of much-needed housing and infrastructure projects across the nation.

Key Takeaways

  • AI-Powered Efficiency: The ‘Extract’ tool automates the processing of planning documents, converting handwritten and historical files into structured data in minutes.
  • Time and Cost Savings: Trials have shown a reduction in document processing time from hours to mere minutes, with potential annual savings for the public sector estimated at £527 million.
  • Accelerated Housing Development: The tool is a key component of the government’s ‘Plan for Change’, aiming to facilitate the construction of 1.5 million new homes.
  • Digital Transformation: This partnership is part of a broader government strategy to modernise public sector technology and reduce reliance on outdated legacy systems.

Streamlining Planning Processes

The ‘Extract’ tool, developed with support from Google, is set to transform how local councils and planning officers handle planning applications. Currently, planning officers process around 350,000 applications annually, often dealing with paper-based files that require extensive manual validation. ‘Extract’ addresses this by converting these documents into structured data rapidly. Initial trials in Hillingdon, Nuneaton & Bedworth, and Exeter demonstrated a dramatic reduction in processing time, from one to two hours per document down to just three minutes. This enhanced efficiency means the tool could potentially manage up to 100 planning records daily, significantly boosting workflow for local authorities.

Broader Government AI Strategy

This initiative aligns with the government’s wider commitment to leveraging AI for public good. The government is exploring regulatory sandboxes, where rules can be temporarily adjusted under strict supervision, to test and accelerate AI innovations in sectors like healthcare, transport, and manufacturing. The goal is to cut bureaucracy, drive economic growth, and improve public services. The ‘Extract’ tool is a prime example of this strategy in action, aiming to make the planning system more transparent by uploading converted data to a public platform on gov.uk. The government also plans to develop a document-scanning app to further simplify deployment.

Partnership with Google Cloud

The collaboration with Google extends beyond the ‘Extract’ tool. The government is working with Google Cloud to modernise public sector technology, moving away from costly and vulnerable legacy systems. This partnership aims to migrate services to the cloud, enabling public sector organisations to adopt advanced technologies. Google Cloud has committed to investing in the UK public sector and upskilling 100,000 civil servants by 2030, fostering a more digitally adept public workforce. This move is expected to save taxpayers billions annually by ensuring better value for money on technology contracts and fostering innovation within the UK’s tech sector.

Sources

ACME's redevelopment of Liverpool Street Station, London.

ACME’s Liverpool Street Station Redevelopment Gets Green Light Despite Widespread Opposition

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The City of London has approved ACME’s ambitious £1.5 billion redevelopment of Liverpool Street Station, a decision that moves forward despite over 3,700 objections from heritage groups, residents, and architectural bodies. The project, which includes a new 97m-tall office tower above the station concourse, aims to fund significant station improvements and modernise the transport hub.

Key Takeaways

  • The City of London planning committee voted 19-3 in favour of ACME’s redevelopment.
  • Over 3,700 objections were lodged against the £1.5 billion project.
  • The scheme involves partial demolition and the construction of a new office tower.
  • Heritage groups and architects have voiced strong opposition, citing concerns over the impact on the listed station.
  • Supporters argue the redevelopment is crucial for modernising infrastructure and supporting the City’s economy.

A Contentious Approval

The approval by the City of London planning committee marks a significant, albeit controversial, step for the future of Liverpool Street Station. The project, designed by ACME, faced a barrage of criticism, including from prominent heritage organisations like the Victorian Society and the Twentieth Century Society, as well as SAVE Britain’s Heritage. These groups have protested the partial demolition of the listed station and the construction of a tall office tower, arguing it would cause irreversible harm to the historic asset and its setting.

Arguments For and Against

Proponents of the redevelopment, including committee chair Tom Sleigh and City of London policy chairman Chris Hayward, hailed the decision as a vital upgrade for the Square Mile. They emphasised the need for a modern transport hub to support the City’s business ecosystem, create jobs, and enhance the passenger experience. Sleigh defended the project by questioning why new stations were acceptable in the past but not today, calling the approved scheme an “excellent application” and a “modern temple to transport.”

Conversely, opponents, including TV presenter Griff Rhys Jones, president of the Victorian Society, described the decision as a “sad day for the City of London,” labelling the office block as “disfiguring.” A rival proposal from John McAslan + Partners, which aimed for a less disruptive approach by building over the trainshed, was also presented but ultimately deemed unviable by Network Rail and ACME due to engineering complexities and financial concerns.

Heritage and Viability Concerns

While Historic England did not formally object, they raised concerns about the loss of natural light, the impact on columns, and obstructed views of the train shed’s brick elevations. Hyatt, the owner of the adjacent Grade II*-listed Andaz London Liverpool Street hotel, also expressed worries about the scheme’s impact and disruption. Despite these concerns and the substantial number of objections, the planning officer’s report concluded that the benefits of upgrading the station and delivering density in a suitable location outweighed the negative impacts.

The Path Forward

ACME’s approved scheme differs from earlier, more controversial plans by Herzog & de Meuron, notably leaving the former Great Eastern Hotel untouched. The project aims to improve station concourses, enhance accessibility, and introduce new pedestrian routes. Heritage groups have vowed to continue their opposition, stating they are “prepared for the long haul” and will examine the committee’s decision closely for their next steps.

Sources

Parliament building undergoing major restoration work.

Parliament’s Future: £40bn Restoration Bill Looms as Two Options Emerge

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The monumental task of restoring the Houses of Parliament has been narrowed down to two distinct options, with the potential price tag soaring to an astonishing £40 billion. This significant expenditure underscores the critical state of the historic Palace of Westminster and the complex decisions facing lawmakers regarding its future.

Key Takeaways

  • Two primary restoration strategies remain under consideration.
  • The estimated cost for either option could reach up to £40 billion.
  • Urgent action is required to address the deteriorating condition of the Palace of Westminster.

The Dilemma Facing Parliament

The Palace of Westminster, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is in dire need of extensive repairs. Decades of neglect and the sheer age of the building have led to a critical state of disrepair, with concerns ranging from fire safety to structural integrity. The decision on how to proceed with restoration is not merely a financial one, but also a complex balancing act between preserving heritage and ensuring the building’s functionality for future generations.

Understanding the Two Options

While specific details of the two remaining options are not fully public, it is understood that they represent different approaches to the scale and methodology of the restoration. One option may involve a more phased, potentially longer-term approach, while the other could be a more comprehensive, albeit potentially more disruptive, overhaul. Both are expected to require the temporary relocation of Parliament.

The projected cost of £40 billion reflects the immense scale of the undertaking. This figure encompasses not only structural repairs but also essential upgrades to modernise the building’s infrastructure, including electrical, plumbing, and IT systems, while adhering to stringent heritage conservation standards.

The Urgency of Action

Experts have repeatedly warned that delaying essential repairs will only lead to further deterioration and potentially higher costs in the long run. The current condition of the Palace poses risks, and a significant intervention is deemed unavoidable. The decision-making process is expected to be lengthy and involve extensive consultation, but the ultimate goal is to secure the future of this iconic symbol of British democracy.

Futuristic cube building in Saudi Arabia desert.

Saudi Arabia’s Ambitious Mukaab Project Reportedly Halted Amidst Wider Mega-Project Revisions

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Construction on Saudi Arabia’s colossal Mukaab mega-cube project, a flagship component of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 redevelopment drive, has reportedly been put on hold. This development follows reports of scaled-down plans for other major Saudi ventures, including Neom’s Trojena ski resort and The Line, signalling a potential recalibration of the Kingdom’s ambitious diversification strategy.

Key Takeaways

  • Building work on the Mukaab’s main landmark structure has been suspended, with only initial excavation and piling continuing.
  • The Mukaab’s design is reportedly being revisited to align with a scale more suited to Riyadh’s existing urban fabric.
  • Other major Saudi projects, such as Neom’s Trojena and The Line, are also facing significant revisions and scale-downs.
  • These adjustments suggest a broader strategic shift in Saudi Arabia’s development priorities.

Mukaab Project Put On Ice

Building work on the Mukaab, a project backed by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, commenced in October 2023. AtkinsRéalis was initially appointed as the masterplanner and winner of the international design competition for the new downtown district. However, in November, AECOM and Jacobs were brought on board for the detailed design phase. Just two months later, construction on the planned 2 million m² tower has reportedly been halted, according to sources cited by Reuters. While work on the main cube structure has been suspended beyond soil excavation and pilings, construction on the surrounding residential-led development, involving KPF, is understood to be ongoing.

A source familiar with the region suggests that AtkinsRéalis’s original vision for the gigantic cube will be redesigned to a scale more in keeping with downtown Riyadh’s predominantly residential character.

Wider Revisions to Saudi Mega-Projects

The Mukaab’s reported pause follows similar adjustments to other high-profile Saudi developments. Neom’s Trojena ski resort, designed by firms including Zaha Hadid Architects and Aedas, is reportedly being scaled down due to escalating costs. The mountain winter sports venue, slated to host the 2029 Asian Winter Games, has had its timeline postponed to an unspecified future date. The decision was attributed to a “shared strategic commitment to the long-term and sustainable development of winter sports in Saudi Arabia.”

Furthermore, The Line, Neom’s ambitious linear city project, is also facing significant revisions. Reports indicate it will be substantially downscaled from its original 170km vision and redesigned. The first phase of The Line, overseen by Gensler, was initially expected to be completed by 2030, but its progression is now subject to a year-long review. Neom has stated that it is “always looking at how to phase and prioritise our initiatives so that they align with national objectives and create long-term value.”

Shifting Priorities

These developments come amid broader reports of a slowdown in Saudi Arabia’s construction sector. Some industry insiders suggest a recalibration of priorities, moving away from “batshit projects” towards venues for sports and events, such as the Qiddiya entertainment and leisure masterplan. Financial results from Gensler Europe revealed a decrease in its Middle East work, despite securing a substantial confidential contract, indicating a potential shift in the market dynamics for large-scale architectural and engineering firms operating in the region.

The wider Murabba development, of which the Mukaab is a part, was initially slated for completion by 2030. However, the anticipated deadline for this 19 million m² district has now been extended to 2040. This extensive development aims to create a new ’15-minute’ downtown for Riyadh, incorporating a museum, university, theatres, 100,000 new homes, 9,000 hotel rooms, and significant retail and office space.

Sources

Chinese embassy building in London with security presence.

London’s Controversial Chinese ‘Super Embassy’ Approved Amid Security Fears and Judicial Review

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The UK government has granted planning approval for a new, expansive Chinese embassy in central London, a decision that has ignited significant controversy and prompted a judicial review. The project, located at Royal Mint Court near the historic Tower of London, has faced prolonged scrutiny over national security concerns, potential espionage risks, and its proximity to critical data infrastructure.

Key Takeaways

  • The new Chinese embassy, designed by David Chipperfield Architects, is set to be the largest in Europe.
  • Approval follows multiple delays and intense debate regarding national security and espionage risks.
  • A judicial review is being launched by concerned residents and campaign groups.
  • Concerns include the embassy’s proximity to sensitive financial data cables and potential for surveillance.

A Contentious Approval

Housing and Communities Secretary Steve Reed gave the final go-ahead for the 2.3-hectare development, which combines new structures with repurposed existing buildings on the former Royal Mint site. The decision came after several missed self-imposed deadlines and amid a backdrop of political and media backlash in the UK and the US. Critics have voiced fears that the embassy could be exploited as a base for espionage and economic warfare.

National Security and Espionage Fears

A major point of contention has been the proposed 208 underground rooms. Reports revealed that a section of this subterranean complex is situated near fibre optic cables carrying sensitive financial and internet data across the City of London. This revelation led several MPs to call for the proposal’s rejection, with concerns raised that the new embassy could be used to “exploit the critical infrastructure of our closest allies.”

Intelligence agencies, including MI5 and GCHQ, have been involved throughout the process. While they have noted that it’s unrealistic to eliminate every potential risk associated with foreign diplomatic premises, they have developed a “package of mitigations” to address national security issues, including those related to cabling. The government stated that consolidating China’s seven current diplomatic sites into one would bring clear security advantages.

Protests and Opposition

The project has faced opposition from various groups, including local residents, diaspora communities, and international parliamentarians. Concerns range from the potential for increased surveillance and harassment of dissidents to the impact on local residents and public safety. Protesters have highlighted China’s human rights record, particularly its treatment of Uyghur Muslims, as a reason to block the development.

Judicial Review Launched

Following the approval, residents of Royal Mint Court, whose landlord is China after they purchased the site in 2018, have announced their intention to launch a judicial review. They argue that they were excluded from the planning process when the application was “called in” by the government. Legal experts have been instructed to challenge the decision, citing concerns over displacement, security, safety, and privacy.

Diplomatic Implications

The approval is seen by some as paving the way for Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s planned diplomatic trip to China, potentially improving UK-China relations. However, critics warn against assuming this will fundamentally alter China’s approach to the UK, suggesting that China secured a significant advantage with the embassy approval. The decision also comes as the UK seeks to rebuild its own embassy in Beijing, highlighting the complex diplomatic balancing act involved.

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Grimsby warehouses transformed into a colourful youth zone.

Historic Grimsby Warehouses Transformed into Vibrant Youth Zone

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Grimsby’s historic West Haven Maltings and Migar House buildings, dating back to the 1820s, have been meticulously converted into the Horizon Youth Zone by John Puttick Associates. This ambitious project breathes new life into the derelict riverside structures, creating a state-of-the-art facility for young people in North East Lincolnshire.

Key Takeaways

  • The project revitalises Grade II-listed Victorian warehouses, blending heritage conservation with modern youth facilities.
  • Horizon Youth Zone offers a wide array of activities, from sports and performance to creative arts and educational spaces.
  • The development is a significant part of Grimsby’s regeneration strategy, providing a safe and inspiring environment for over 200 young people daily.

A Fusion Of Heritage And Modernity

The Horizon Youth Zone is a testament to adaptive reuse, transforming former maltings and warehouses that once produced ‘Sandars’ malt into a dynamic hub for young people. The project, delivered in partnership with OnSide, North East Lincolnshire Council, and local stakeholders, retains and restores key architectural features of the original buildings, including exposed brickwork and timber trusses. New additions, such as a charcoal-grey zinc-clad sports hall with a saw-tooth roof and a full-height climbing wall, are seamlessly integrated into the L-shaped campus.

State-Of-The-Art Facilities For Young People

The revitalised warehouses now house a generous central gathering space, a café, recreation facilities, a performance area, and a teaching kitchen. The new single-storey extension includes a 1,120m² sports hall and an outdoor area featuring a football pitch and skatepark. Specialist facilities cater to diverse needs, including an inclusion room for those with complex sensory requirements and a hygiene suite for severely disabled young people. The design prioritises creating an engaging and welcoming atmosphere, moving away from traditional youth club models towards stylish, modern spaces that encourage self-directed activity.

Community And Regeneration Impact

Horizon Youth Zone is the 16th centre established by the national youth charity OnSide, which aims to provide young people with “somewhere to go, something to do and someone to talk to.” The project is a cornerstone of Grimsby’s wider regeneration efforts, repurposing a derelict site into a vibrant community asset. The initiative not only celebrates Grimsby’s industrial heritage but also provides essential 21st-century facilities, fostering skills development, creativity, and social interaction for the region’s youth. The project has also focused on sustainability, achieving a significant improvement in energy efficiency through structural retention, material reuse, and the integration of PVs and enhanced insulation.

Architectural Vision

John Puttick Associates has successfully balanced heritage conservation with the creation of modern, functional spaces. The design celebrates the ‘raw’ structural materials of the original buildings, with exposed brickwork and timber elements complemented by bold contemporary interventions. A key feature is the triple-height atrium, accessed via a pedestrian bridge over the River Freshney, which serves as the building’s social heart. The architectural approach aims to create a sense of ownership and connection for young people, making the facility a truly vibrant destination.

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Architects celebrate successful homelessness appeal donation.

Architects’ Journal’s Homelessness Appeal Surpasses Expectations, Raising Nearly £13,000

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The Architects’ Journal (AJ) has successfully concluded its impactful homelessness charity appeal, raising an impressive £12,844.50. The initiative, launched in conjunction with the December issue’s focus on homelessness, saw significant contributions from architectural practices, individual readers, and the AJ’s parent company, Emap, all supporting the vital work of Shelter.

Key Takeaways

  • The AJ’s homelessness charity appeal raised a total of £12,844.50.
  • Contributions came from architectural practices, individual donors, and Emap.
  • The appeal aimed to support Shelter’s efforts in combating homelessness.

Generous Contributions Fuel Success

The appeal, which had an initial target of £15,000, received a substantial boost from guests at the AJ Architecture Awards, who collectively raised £8,500. Following the event, individual readers and numerous architectural firms, including David Chipperfield Architects, shedkm, BPTW, nimtim, NVB Studio, Silk Architecture, and Paul Henry Architects, continued to donate generously. These contributions ranged from £25 to £1,000, demonstrating a widespread commitment to the cause.

AJ editor Emily Booth expressed her gratitude, stating, “Our huge thanks go out to all the practices and architects who have so generously donated to our Shelter charity appeal. It’s such a worthwhile cause and every donation, large or small, will make a difference.” The appeal was extended throughout January to encourage further donations.

Shelter’s Vital Work

Mairi MacRae, director of policy and campaigns at Shelter, conveyed deep appreciation for the support. “We are incredibly grateful to Architects’ Journal and their generous readers for supporting Shelter,” she said. “Thousands of people across England risk sleeping rough tonight, while over 350,000 people are spending the winter homeless in unstable and damaging temporary accommodation. No one should face homelessness alone.”

Shelter’s frontline services offer crucial advice and support, alongside campaigning for systemic change to end homelessness. The funds raised will directly contribute to these essential operations. For every £1 donated to Shelter, 71p is allocated to direct assistance, advice, and campaigning, with 29p used for fundraising efforts.

Broader Context of Homelessness

Recent analysis indicates that the UK faces a significant homelessness crisis, with one in every 200 households experiencing it. While rough sleeping is a visible aspect, the predominant form of homelessness in Britain involves individuals living in temporary accommodation, often due to the inability to afford housing. The AJ has consistently highlighted housing issues, including a previous collaboration on the ‘Good Homes for All’ publication showcasing affordable housing schemes and discussions on the surge in rough sleeping.

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