LONDON-UK property is set to outperform equities again in 2001, despite depressed returns reflecting the economic downturn according to new research from Insignia Richard Ellis.

LONDON-New research from property adviser DTZ charts the growing influence of limited partnerships in UK commercial property. The firms calculates that the total value of limited partnerships now exceeds that of all other indirect vehicles.

LONDON-Industrial vacancies have continued their upward trend, with voids across the UK rising to 164 million sf, up 4.1% since April 2001, according to the latest edition of King Sturge's <I>Industrial Floorspace Today</I>.

LONDON-The long-awaited green paper consultative document into the planning system promises biggest shake-up in the planning system in more than half a century. Under the plan more decision-making will be devolved to the local level.

LONDON-A new $360 million fund designed to assist private investment in neglected areas of the country has been approved by the UK government with AMEC and Legal &amp; General as its private-sector partners.

LONDON-The office vacancy rate in central London has soared to a five-year high of 7.1%, according to new research from agent DTZ. Less than two years ago the rate was as low as 2%.

LONDON-Life Assurance Holding Corporation has outsourced the asset management of its $260 million Windsor Life property portfolio to Aberdeen Property Asset Managers.

LONDON-Property consultant Strutt &amp; Parker and Philip Ingman, previously Managing Director of Celexa Real Estate Investment Management, have joined forces to form a new consultancy to advise on property limited partnerships.