Jen Lemen of Property Elite summarises the crucial and immediate changes to the new RICS APC Candidate and Counsellor Guides. Key updates cover backdating structured training (now up to 6 months), clarifying the difference between the diary and log book, setting a 2-year validity period for case studies, and establishing strict rules against using AI writing tools for submissions.

Richard Allen, a former ACES President, questions whether Community Asset Transfer (CAT) is a policy "inherently destined to fail," given the struggles of high-profile cases like the Lenton Centre and St Ann’s Allotments in Nottingham. He argues that while CAT is vital for community empowerment, success hinges on robust local authority support, long-term leases, and addressing the growing challenge of volunteer shortages in community groups.

Danni Foster, RICS Next Generation Manager, interviews Francesca Fowler-Walsh, Associate at Savills and UK Board member of RICS Matrics—the early career community for surveyors up to 10 years post-qualification. Francesca shares how the network, which offers peer support, CPD, and mentoring, provided a vital training ground for both technical and soft skills, opening doors by providing the confidence and network to choose which doors to open.

Brian Thompson and Peter Beer detail the experience of the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) as one of five locations awarded funding for the innovative Place Pilot Programme in 2022. Designed as a test bed for scalable collaborative asset management beyond routine One Public Estate (OPE) projects, the programme successfully fostered regional collaboration, updated key documents like the Public Land Charter, and unlocked novel projects, proving the power of a regional,

Guy Brett of Watling Consulting compares a 1999 government study with a 2025 pulse survey, finding that despite a decisive shift toward corporate control of assets, the lack of decision-grade data and constrained capacity are severely hindering progress in unlocking the public estate. He provides six effective changes councils can make this year, emphasizing a shift from site-by-site to programmed phasing and service-led pipelines to manage mounting pressures like LGR and dec

Maddie Chelsom, an Associate at Knight Frank, argues that estate strategies are now "strategic imperatives" for the public sector. She outlines four key drivers for renewal—financial efficiency, service transformation, climate commitments, and place leadership—and details the critical success factors of a good strategy, including strategic alignment, data-driven insight, and robust financial modelling to ensure deliverability and secure senior buy-in.

Chartered Surveyor Laura Boutle argues that the public estate is a powerful lever for resilience and growth, challenging the status quo by insisting on aligning property with purpose. Following on from Richard Gawthorpe’s article, she identifies two "golden threads" for unlocking potential: regular, structured stakeholder engagement to define community need and investing in a comprehensive asset register—the "engine room of effective estate strategy."

Richard Gawthorpe of the Norse Group argues that facing a new reality of financial pressure and reorganisation, local authorities must shift their mindset from viewing public estates as liabilities to seeing them as engines of fiscal resilience and growth. He advocates for bold leadership, strategic repurposing (like converting offices to housing), and using innovative financing tools like joint ventures to generate revenue while retaining strategic control.

Dave Pogson recounts a series of "coincidences of coincidences" stretching back 50 years to the start of his surveying career, centered around Plumpton Station Yard in Cumbria, unexpected encounters with his cousin, and near-misses with Willie Whitelaw.

Simon Eades, a chartered surveyor who started his career in 1980, shares his "musings" on life and work, including humorous anecdotes and reflections on his journey from private practice to Great Yarmouth Borough Council, culminating in a memorable trip to Southwold.

Discover how Team London Bridge, a Business Improvement District, has transformed London Bridge over two decades, driving economic growth, enhancing sustainability, and fostering a vibrant community through strategic initiatives and local investment.

Iain Mulvey, an experienced regeneration and business development professional, examines the implications of Local Government Pension Service (LGPS) reform for real estate, highlighting its potential to impact long-term property investment strategies.

This blog post features an "In conversation with the MIPIM Challengers" discussion, focusing on the experiences of Jessie Leung from JLL and Charlotte Leach from Avison Young, and exploring what lies "Beyond the week in Cannes" at MIPIM.

Jen Lemen of Property Elite offers practical advice on running APC e-mock interviews for aspiring RICS Chartered Surveyors, emphasizing the importance of simulating the official interview process and the value of mentorship in guiding candidates to qualification.

Chris Worman, MBE, a veteran in the parks industry, advocates for recognizing parks and green spaces as essential infrastructure due to their significant health benefits, arguing that undervaluing these areas contributes to rising healthcare costs.

Chris Brain, FRICS, demystifies Section 114 notices, explaining their origins in the 1985 rate-capping rebellion and clarifying that they are a measure to prevent, not signify, council bankruptcy. He details the severe financial pressures on UK local authorities due to external forces and increased demand for services, contrasting media portrayals with the true purpose and implications of a Section 114 notice.

David Bentley, now semi-retired and running a successful B&B in the Scottish Highlands, recounts part one of his New Zealand adventure. From navigating a last-minute tour change to a thrilling night walk where he encountered four elusive kiwi birds, his journey highlights unexpected joys and challenges.

Tom Procter and Yvette Black of JLL explore the potential of Open Mosaic Habitats (OMHs) in meeting Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) requirements. They highlight how transforming brownfield sites into habitat banks can not only achieve ecological targets but also generate revenue, offering a unique opportunity for local authorities and developers.

Nick Helm and Adam Hulme highlight the significant opportunities for local authorities in developing heat networks. They discuss how these networks can help achieve net-zero targets and lower costs, while emphasizing the increasing regulatory support and the critical need for legal expertise in navigating procurement and real estate complexities.

Alan Wright, a Senior Architectural Technician with 19 years of experience in residential architecture, shares professional insights and personal experiences on the Future Homes Standard (FHS). He discusses the challenges and benefits of the proposed changes, including the new Home Energy Model (HEM), and recounts his own "experiment" in retrofitting his 1970s home to meet stringent energy efficiency standards.