LONDON-Slough Estates has dismissed as premature reports of an imminent de-merger of its $1-billion portfolio of US biotechnology parks.

LONDON-Slough Estates has dismissed as premature reports of an imminent demerger of its pounds 620 million ($1 billion) portfolio of U.S. biotechnology parks.

LONDON-The Bank of Ireland may outsource its entire UK property portfolio estimated to be worth pounds 120 million ($193 million). Nelson Bakewell has been commissioned to carry out a feasibility study.

LONDON-A masterplan for the 371-acre (150ha) Barking Reach site in the Thames Gateway has been commissioned from architect/urban planner Maxwan and landscape architect Karres en Brands.

LONDON-Rents on commercial property are expected to fall by 1.2% this year, according to new research by RICS. Subdued business confidence means many occupiers are delaying expansion and relocation plans.

LONDON-Speculation is circulating in the City that InterContinental Hotel Group could dispose of key brands leaving it focused on Holiday Inn. Any sale of the InterContinental and Crowne Plaza brands could raise pounds 2.5 billion ($4 billion).

LONDON-Debenhams is facing a backlash from two of its biggest shareholders. The opposition is expected to kick-start a bidding war, possibly with CVC and Texas Pacific Group entering the fray.

LONDON-British Land announced today it had ended talks to buy Aberdeen Asset Management's property investment management business. Aberdeen had hoped to raise pounds 45 million ($72.2 million) from the sale.