Clearly I have been amiss in only finding out about Scotchbrooks today (see other thread).

The planning appeal is a cause for concern and something which needs to be kept an eye on. However I'm not sure whether a business case for smaller flats is enough to win an appeal on its own but its not unheard of.

Does anyone know what proportion of the flats have actually been purchased off plan? It may also be that many of those who have paid a deposit have decided to forfeit this rather than proceed as they may not be able to secure mortgages given that values have fallen and lending has been tightened up. I would also be deeply suspicious about any view of elderly people chasing after one beds such as these. They are not adapted flats and are likely to have higher than average service charges, and I can't see people on reduced income being wildly attracted to this type of property, particularly as the main clientele is likely to be mid to late 30's with a potential clash of lifestyle. As someone has pointed out, the values are also not what you would expect this sector of the community to pay.

The fact that the work is now on hold until the appeal is held is also of concern. Does anyone know the timescale for this? This can take up to 6 months in a fair wind. What does this mean for the road closure timetable and for the affordable housing provision. And what happens if they do not get this. Loads of questions!
Leaving a frame like this will not do its fabric any good as it will incur weather damage and its construction value will drop further.
I have been dealing with developers in Docklands who have just abandoned a partially completed building and laid off all of their workers as they cannot afford to complete the building.

I hope this autumn sees some sort of housing market rescue package like we had in the early 90's as something needs to be done to at least keep the market ticking over for the next few years.