Downtown in Business has unveiled the first wave of speakers for its flagship Talking ‘Bout Regeneration: Placemaking, Politics and Investment conference, taking place on Wednesday 23rd September 2026 at the Crowne Plaza Hotel, Liverpool City Centre.
The conference comes at a pivotal moment for the UK, with devolution, housing delivery, planning reform and economic growth dominating the political agenda. Bringing together some of the country’s leading voices from business, local government, regeneration and public affairs, the event will explore how stronger partnerships between the public and private sectors can help shape the next generation of successful towns and cities.
Among the confirmed speakers are:
Chris Oglesby, Chief Executive of Bruntwood, one of the UK’s most influential property companies. Chris has played a leading role in transforming Manchester’s commercial landscape and has become one of the country’s foremost advocates for innovation districts, sustainable development and long-term investment in cities.
Naomi Smith, Chief Executive of Best for Britain, the influential campaign organisation focused on economic competitiveness, international trade and Britain’s future relationship with Europe. Naomi will offer a national perspective on how politics and economic policy shape investment, prosperity and regional growth.
Lady Lucy French, Chief Executive of Fleet Street Quarter BID in London, who leads one of the capital’s most ambitious business improvement districts. Her work demonstrates how collaboration between business, local authorities and investors can revitalise historic commercial districts and create thriving city centres.
Stephen Young, Chief Executive of Salford City Council, widely recognised as one of local government’s most respected regeneration leaders. Stephen has been instrumental in driving Salford’s remarkable transformation through strategic partnerships, innovation and investment.
Councillor Liam Robinson, Leader of Liverpool City Council, will outline Liverpool’s ambitious regeneration programme, housing strategy and investment priorities, as well as the city’s continuing role as one of the UK’s leading examples of urban renewal.
Kevin Craig, founder and Executive Chair of PLMR, one of Britain’s leading public affairs and communications consultancies, will provide insight into the relationship between politics, business and policy-making, and why effective engagement is increasingly important for organisations operating in today’s political landscape.
Colin Sinclair, Chief Executive of Knowledge Quarter Liverpool, has helped establish the city as one of Europe’s fastest-growing innovation districts. Under his leadership, Knowledge Quarter Liverpool has become a globally recognised cluster for science, health, education and technology, attracting significant public and private sector investment.
Mike Emmerich, founding partner of Metro Dynamics, is one of the UK’s leading experts on regional economic development, devolution and place-based growth. Having advised governments, metro mayors and city regions across the country, Mike will examine the opportunities presented by the next phase of English devolution and what it means for business.
Further keynote speakers and panellists, including senior ministers, metro mayors, investors and developers, will be announced over the coming weeks.
Downtown in Business Chief Executive Frank McKenna said:
Talking ‘Bout Regeneration is being launched at precisely the right moment. The national conversation has shifted decisively towards devolution, housing, infrastructure and economic growth, and those issues will define the success of our cities and regions over the next decade.
We wanted to assemble people who don’t simply comment on regeneration-they deliver it. The quality of the speakers already confirmed demonstrates the importance of this conference, and we are delighted that so many outstanding leaders have agreed to take part.
The conference will attract senior delegates from government, combined authorities, local councils, property and construction, professional services, finance, higher education and infrastructure, providing a unique opportunity to hear from – and network with – the individuals shaping the future of Britain’s towns, cities and regions.
Further speaker announcements and the full conference programme will be released in the coming weeks.
For sponsorship opportunities or delegate bookings, please contact chris.mckenna@downtowninbusiness.com.
To book your tickets for the conference please CLICK HERE.
