Martin Blackwell

A consideration of the UK Government's proposals for business improvement districts in England: Issues and uncertainties

Purpose – To provide a critical appraisal of the UK Governments proposals for the introduction of business improvement districts (BIDs) into England considering statute and case law against the proposed regulations, while drawing on the experience of BID models in North America.Design/methodology/approach – The paper analyses the proposed regulations against the existing statute and common law position in England.Findings – The regulations will not levy all hereditaments as stated. The voting and taxation provisions are not defined and transparent in connection with those paying less than full rates. Implications of the House of Lords decision in Edison appear to have been overlooked in the drafting.Research limitations/implications – The paper is specific to the Draft Business Improvement Districts (England) Regulations 2004. The paper identifies key issues for those involved in the local economy and property management in England. It is relevant across jurisdictions to those considering proposals for t...

The relationship of geographical indications with real property valuation and management

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to examine the relationship of geographical indications (GIs) with real property valuation and management.Design/methodology/approach – The paper considers existing and developing legal frameworks and current guidance with practical examples to support points made.Findings – GIs have been overlooked to date in valuation guidance yet have a relevance that needs to be addressed. They are also relevant to practice and theory in other areas, for example compulsory purchase and planning.Research limitations/implications – The paper identifies issues and problems: it does not suggest complete solutions, which in particular areas will need to be based on further research.Practical implications – The paper has a high degree of practical relevance.Originality/value – The paper is believed to be the first to consider the implications of GIs on real property valuation and management. The research identifies a gap in present valuation guidance and the potential for inconsistency...