Downtown in Business (DIB) has announced a further three high-profile 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.
Joining an already impressive line-up are:
Nick Walkley, Interim Chief Executive of Cheshire & Warrington Combined Authority, who is playing a leading role in shaping one of England’s newest devolved strategic authorities. Nick will bring valuable insight into the opportunities and challenges presented by the next phase of devolution and regional economic growth.
Katie Bentley, Director of Strategic Partnerships & Communications at Liverpool Business Improvement District. Katie has been at the forefront of building partnerships that have helped unlock major investment and transform communities, making her a key voice in discussions around placemaking, collaboration and long-term regeneration.
Tim Johnson, Chief Executive of the City of Wolverhampton Council, who has overseen an ambitious programme of regeneration, investment and public sector transformation. Tim’s experience in delivering major projects and attracting investment will add an important perspective from one of the country’s fastest-changing cities.
They join an outstanding list of speakers already confirmed for the conference, including:
- Chris Oglesby, Chief Executive, Bruntwood
- Naomi Smith, Chief Executive, Best for Britain
- Lady Lucy French, Chief Executive, Fleet Street Quarter BID
- Stephen Young, Chief Executive, Salford City Council
- Councillor Liam Robinson, Leader, Liverpool City Council
- Kevin Craig, Executive Chair, PLMR
- Colin Sinclair, Chief Executive, Knowledge Quarter Liverpool
- Mike Emmerich, Founding Partner, Metro Dynamics
With devolution, housing delivery, planning reform and infrastructure investment dominating the political agenda, Talking ‘Bout Regeneration will bring together senior politicians, local government leaders, developers, investors, property professionals and business leaders to debate how Britain’s towns, cities and regions can deliver sustainable economic growth.
Downtown in Business Group Chair and Chief Executive Frank McKenna said:
“The response to this conference has been exceptional. The calibre of speakers who have agreed to participate reflects just how important the national conversation around regeneration and devolution has become.
“Nick, Katie and Tim each bring a wealth of experience from different parts of the country and different sectors, reinforcing what Downtown in Business has always believed – that successful regeneration depends on genuine collaboration between business, government and civic leadership.
“With more high-profile speakers still to be announced, Talking ‘Bout Regeneration is shaping up to be one of the UK’s most significant forums for discussing the future of our towns, cities and regions.”
The conference will explore the opportunities created by the Government’s devolution agenda, ambitious housing targets, planning reform and investment in infrastructure, while examining how public and private sector partnerships can create thriving places and stronger local economies.
Further speaker announcements will be made over the coming weeks.
For sponsorship opportunities or delegate bookings, please contact the Downtown in Business team email: events@downtowninbusiness.com.
