Planning Permissions Drought Worsens. Figures show housing permissions have halved in 4 years

"This is a stark reminder as to why Government must stand firm and deliver a robust and pro-growth planning system", says HBF spokesman.

The report, compiled for HBF by Glenigan reveals;
Total 2011 permissions granted in England lowest since survey started in 2006
Just 115k permissions granted in 2011, half the 2006 level and half the number required
In Q4 2011 approval was granted for just

Aldermore and Hitachi Capital extend a further helping hand to hard-pressed house buyers

New British bank Aldermore is once again extending a helping hand to hard-pressed house buyers via the launch of a new scheme which requires borrowers to raise only a 5% cash deposit.

The scheme, initially marketed via Barratt Homes (including David Wilson Homes and Ward Homes), combines an Aldermore 80% LTV two-year fixed rate mortgage with up to a 15% LTV unsecured loan provided by