Environment Agency runs into opposition over search service

Plans by the Environment Agency to set up its own search service for conveyancing transactions are to be put under the microscope by the Office of Fair Trading (OFT).

The trouble arose after the agency announced plans to launch its own property searches in April, but was reported to the OFT by existing search provider Sitescope.

Sitescope argued that data for the searches - much of which is provided by the agency - would not be available on fair and reasonable terms to other providers as the agency planned to raise the charges it makes by more than 20 times.

Sitescope director Dan Re'em said: 'The manner in which the agency is proceeding will restrict competition.'

An Environment Agency spokeswoman said it was meeting with OFT officials this week.

'We are confident that we will be able to address any issues raised,' she added.

Paula Rohan