About Somkay Steven Okonkwo
How do we keep investors interested in UK property?
In order to keep investors interested in UK property, Britain must focus on it's rich heritage. Much of the UK's wealthiest investors come from newly rich countries such as The UAE, kuwait, China and Brasil - countries that lack the diverse and historic traditions that have left their indelible mark on our country's properties.
The above, combined with Boris Johnson's zealous passion when 'selling' the UK on overseas visits has given rise to what I think of as 'Brand Britain'. Events such as the 2012 Olympics and The Queen's Jubilee have catapulted our small Island onto the world stage, more so than ever, meaning that it has never been more attractive to own a stake in the UK, through property. This is shown by the fact that the reason why properties are in exclusive London areas such as Kensinton and Chelsea and Westminster are snapped up by wealthy Brazillians and Russians is because the UK is seen as a port in the storm from economic woes, while affording the children of said investors the opportunites to gain a cultural understanding, in our country's leading educational institutions such as Eton or Oxford, which are also famed for their enduring heritage.
Featured articles and news
Statement from the Interim Chief Construction Advisor
Thouria Istephan; Architect and inquiry panel member outlines ongoing work, priorities and next steps.
The 2025 draft NPPF in brief with indicative responses
Local verses National and suitable verses sustainable: Consultation open for just over one week.
Increased vigilance on VAT Domestic Reverse Charge
HMRC bearing down with increasing force on construction consultant says.
Call for greater recognition of professional standards
Chartered bodies representing more than 1.5 million individuals have written to the UK Government.
Cutting carbon, cost and risk in estate management
Lessons from Cardiff Met’s “Halve the Half” initiative.
Inspiring the next generation to fulfil an electrified future
Technical Manager at ECA on the importance of engagement between industry and education.
Repairing historic stone and slate roofs
The need for a code of practice and technical advice note.
Environmental compliance; a checklist for 2026
Legislative changes, policy shifts, phased rollouts, and compliance updates to be aware of.
UKCW London to tackle sector’s most pressing issues
AI and skills development, ecology and the environment, policy and planning and more.
Managing building safety risks
Across an existing residential portfolio; a client's perspective.
ECA support for Gate Safe’s Safe School Gates Campaign.
Core construction skills explained
Preparing for a career in construction.
Retrofitting for resilience with the Leicester Resilience Hub
Community-serving facilities, enhanced as support and essential services for climate-related disruptions.
Some of the articles relating to water, here to browse. Any missing?
Recognisable Gothic characters, designed to dramatically spout water away from buildings.
A case study and a warning to would-be developers
Creating four dwellings... after half a century of doing this job, why, oh why, is it so difficult?
Reform of the fire engineering profession
Fire Engineers Advisory Panel: Authoritative Statement, reactions and next steps.
Restoration and renewal of the Palace of Westminster
A complex project of cultural significance from full decant to EMI, opportunities and a potential a way forward.
Apprenticeships and the responsibility we share
Perspectives from the CIOB President as National Apprentice Week comes to a close.
























