The way in which local authorities use and manage property assets is central to their ability to support best value service delivery. In 1988, the Audit Commission published a report and handbook on local authority property management, arguing for greater attention to the strategic and policy implications of property ownership and use.
In the 12 years since, there have been many changes: new political and managerial structures; increased delegation of property responsibilities; legislative, technological and cultural change; and a greater emphasis on information gathering and performance measurement. In response to these developments, the Commission decided to undertake a new study that would review councils' progress, explore the difficulties many continue to face, and identify ways in which these might be overcome.