The Federation was formed in 1980's when the constituent organisations, all societies representing the property-related professional service groups in local authorities, agreed the need to establish a single umbrella organisation to provide a strong consolidated voice on professional property-related matters in local government. The construction industry and its support professions are fragmented and the number of representative societies in the public sector replicates this. The forming of FPS is recognition of the increased influence a single opinion forming body will have on government and those bodies informing change in legislation.

The environment surrounding public sector property management has, in the past few years undergone considerable change and the pace of change will increase in the foreseeable future. The pace of change is being driven by:

• A desire to use property effectively to support policy and front-line services;
• A desire to see the introduction of commercial portfolio practices through the use of sound asset management techniques;
• The spread of best practices;
• Partnerships with the private sector;
• The green agenda

The Federation of Property Societies in Local Authorities or FPS is well positioned to:

• Bring the constituent societies closer together;
• Bring greater consistency to approach to property matters;
• Avoid duplication of effort; and therefore
• Provide a stronger lobbying body.