LONDON-McDonald's, the American fast-food giant, has decided that coffee no longer fits into its programme. The company has appointed investment bank, SG Hambros, to sell Aroma, the UK coffee-bar chain it bought only two years ago.

LONDON-Although traditionally viewed as one of the South East's poorer relations when compared to Hampshire, Surrey and its West Sussex neighbour, East Sussex is enjoying a housing boom as prime property becomes increasingly scarce.

LONDON-International agency FPD Savills has hit out at findings released by researcher Cambridge Econometrics which says that first time home buyers are facing big problems because of their high mortgage commitments.

LONDON-The National Housing Federation has charged the Government with not going nearly far enough to provide affordable housing as home prices have soared. In many parts of the country essential services are now at risk due to key workers' inability to pay inflated house prices.

LEEDS-Despite making gloomy predictions for the short term future of the housing market earlier in the year, estate agent Chesterton has just published figures that show the investment market in Leeds is maturing fast.

LONDON-The downturn in the US economy has brought mixed blessings for the European hotel market. Despite worsening conditions, the overall performance has held up well, but London has been hit hard.

LONDON-One of the City of London's most historic buildings is undergoing a transformation. The Royal Exchange, which has occupied the site since 1571, is to be converted into a venue for luxury goods and fine dining.

LONDON-The downturn in the US economy has brought mixed blessings for the European hotel market. Despite worsening conditions, the overall performance has held up well, but London has been hit hard.