Matthew Pennycook

Government blocks local plan due to lack of housing

The government could step in and insist the council adds more houses to its planning blueprint.

Housing associations can take out low interest rate loans to build homes across the capital.

Council bosses blamed a lack of funding for the authority's previous backlog of planning applications.

One man was charged £70,000 in levies for replacing an existing extension at his home.

It comes after the chancellor defended accepting free tickets to see Sabrina Carpenter with a family member.

The measure is part of the Planning and Infrastructure Bill, which has been introduced to Parliament.

The action relates to the granting of planning permission for 165 houses at Turnden, near Cranbrook.

Woolwich youth from India gains prestigious title at British Chess Championships

Rachel Maclean says the bill would restore "true homeownership" but Labour says it is "thin gruel".

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