On Thursday 11th September at Hotel Voco in Manchester, Downtown in Business hosted ‘Talkin ‘Bout Regeneration 2025’, our annual national conversation on regeneration, investment, and growth.
The conference brought together senior leaders from government, local authorities, and the private sector to debate the challenges and opportunities shaping the future of the UK’s towns, cities, and regions.
The West Midlands
The day opened with a powerful discussion on the future of the West Midlands, with Joanne Roney CBE (Birmingham City Council), Neil Rami (West Midlands Growth Company), and Julie Nugent (Coventry City Council) sharing their perspectives on regeneration, investment, and building a regional vision for growth.
The North
Attention then turned to the North, where Cllr James Lewis (Leeds City Council) and Pam Smith (Newcastle City Council) explored how northern cities can continue to drive economic momentum, attract investment, and create sustainable opportunities for communities.
The North West
The North West session featured Cllr Liam Robinson (Liverpool City Council) and Stephen Young (Salford City Council), who examined the region’s ambitions for long-term regeneration and growth, and the role of collaboration across Greater Manchester, Merseyside, and beyond.
Supporting People in the Property Industry
A lively panel focused on the talent pipeline and skills agenda within the property and construction industry. Sophie Gilmore (HybridTec), Michele Steel (Regeneration Brainery), and Trevor Steven (Mindflow) shared insights into upskilling, inspiring the next generation, and making the sector more accessible and attractive to future leaders.
Unlocking Opportunities in the Northern Arc
One of the day’s standout sessions explored the Northern Arc, the economic corridor stretching from the Mersey to the Pennines. With 5.4 million residents, £150bn in annual GVA, and £23.5bn in exports, the region has significant potential. Paul McNerney (Laing O’Rourke) and Robbie Blackhurst (Procure Partnerships) discussed how this strategic area is reshaping trade, connectivity, and industrial growth.
Housing & Planning
The final session of the day addressed one of the UK’s most pressing challenges: how to deliver 1.5 million new homes. Jo Henney (Nugent), David Mawson (Placefirst), and Stuart Rogers (Muse) provided perspectives on housing delivery, planning reform, and innovative approaches to development.
Across every panel, a clear theme emerged: collaboration between the public and private sectors is essential to unlocking investment, delivering regeneration, and ensuring long-term, sustainable growth.
We are especially grateful to our headline sponsor, Nugent, whose support was instrumental in delivering this year’s event.
Full gallery to follow soon
