[learnstats2]

I came here to make a tangential point:

I have run past the same gasometers and I found them fascinating and inspiring for the same reason: a tiny part of the city where the space and skyline is reserved for a unique part of our history that isn't simply converted into modern urban sprawl.

Is it a good idea to convert them into new flats which are 90% landlord owned, if not owned by Chinese investors who leave them empty so they can't support local business - the typical fate of new property in London? How does it help your 'have nots' with their rent? Aren't you just stripping out all the cultural and local heritage?

[tankenmate]

A good reason for 'use it or sell it' laws; not just for land, but habitable properties as well. If no one has lived in it for 2 years the government should be able to force you to sell it.

[learnstats2]

Sure.

The goal of capitalism is that stuff is used in an economically efficient way, and capitalism is a bit broken when that doesn't happen.

'Use it or sell it' is needed but dangerous: applied naively, this creates false incentives.