Parliamentary spending watchdog the National Audit Office is to examine the BBC's construction programme, which includes the 拢400m Broadcasting House redevelopment in Portland Place, central London.
Sources at the BBC confirmed that property is one area to face audit office scrutiny. The inquiry could also take in the construction of studios in west London, designed by Allies and Morrison, which are nearing completion.

The BBC raised an 拢800m bond to finance the Portland Place scheme in the summer, which started on site at the end of last year.

The scheme began as a construction management deal but was converted to a fixed price 拢400m design-and-build project with Bovis Lend Lease after the bond was finalised.

An audit office spokesperson refused to be drawn on the subject of any future inquiries. He said: "There is a possible programme of studies. We are not in a position to say on what. We are still in discussions."

The BBC's property programme also includes future schemes for Manchester, designed by Hodder Associates, and for Glasgow, designed by David Chipperfield.

It has also shortlisted five architects to design a music centre, which will be part of the new White City complex. This is the first time that the BBC has agreed to an audit office inquiry.