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The Westminster Policy Forum hosted a conference on 24 April 2024 which explored the next steps for leasehold reform in England and Wales, with the Leasehold and Freehold Bill currently progressing through Parliament. It was an opportunity for stakeholders and policymakers to discuss key measures in the Bill.

The Westminster Policy Forum seeks to obtain and collate views from multiple stakeholders. Particularly at a time of legislative change, the contributions from the various interested stakeholders and bodies are highly relevant.

Mark Chick spoke at the morning part of this event which was Chaired by Barry Gardiner MP.

The conference speakers looked at the options for addressing stakeholder concerns around the affordability of leaseholds, maintenance of property and uncertainty around implementation, especially in the lead up to a general election, with further discussion on the ripple effects on the broader residential market.

Discussion considered alternatives to leasehold, including the future place of commonhold, with a focus on the suitability of the model for the English and Welsh markets, how the model could be made more attractive for lenders, developers and investors, and making the process more efficient and less costly.

Mark Chick, our Senior Partner spoke in his capacity as Chairman of the Association of Leasehold Enfranchisement Practitioners (ALEP). Mark presented delegates with an introduction and background to ALEP and its work to date in the sector and shared his expert insights on a range of reform matters, including the work still required to make commonhold fit for purpose and the difficulties with reconciling a ban on ground rents with existing human rights legislation. He also highlighted the role of practitioners in ensuring that whatever changes are brought forward by politicians, that these are fully workable in practice.

Mark said: “It was a pleasure to be asked to speak at the Westminster Policy Forum on leasehold reform and to have the opportunity to share with delegates the work that ALEP does in helping to engage with Government on issues including leasehold reform. The Conference was an opportunity for stakeholders to consider the issues alongside key policy officials who attended from various Government departments, including DLUHC and HMRC, and there was plenty of meaningful engagement with those attending.”

 

Contact our Landlord & Tenant team

If you have a query concerning leasehold property, then please contact our expert Landlord & Tenant team by emailing leasehold@bishopandsewell.co.uk or call on +44(0)20 7631 4141

The above is accurate as at 30 April 2024. The information above may be subject to change.

The content of this note should not be considered legal advice and each matter should be considered on a case-by-case basis.

Mark Chick Senior Partner   +44 (0)20 7079 2415


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