“Localis, the independent think tank of place, has released a report urging the next government to prioritize local regeneration in order to boost housebuilding and promote economic growth. The report, entitled “Design for life – the smart regeneration journey to 2030’’, highlights the potential for successful regeneration to not only improve economic prospects, but also community health and climate change.
The study, which examined five key pillars of successful regeneration, emphasizes the need for local leaders to have greater control over regeneration funds. This includes a return to regional spatial planning, the establishment of regional planning offices, and the ability to use regeneration as a tool to leverage capital for retrofit and climate resilience measures.
The report also calls for the involvement of the private and third sectors in order to boost the capacity of community housing initiatives within regeneration projects. In addition, it suggests that central government should work with local government and the health service to drive a strategy for community-driven healthcare in urban centers.
Localis chief executive, Jonathan Werran, stated, “This report presents an analysis of local regeneration policy through the lens of five overarching strategic concerns, amounting to a best practice framework from which recommendations to local and central government can be drawn.”
The report also features input from Norse Group CEO Justin Galliford, who emphasizes the importance of regeneration as a core principle for local government operations. “At Norse Group, we believe that the effective management and transformation of local government asset portfolios are fundamental to shaping the future of our communities,” stated Galliford.
Overall, the report highlights the need for a long-term approach to regeneration and calls for a comprehensive strategy to address the challenges faced by local authorities. It also stresses the importance of collaboration between different sectors in order to achieve successful regeneration.
For more information and to download an advance copy of the report, visit Localis.org.uk.
Derick is an experienced reporter having held multiple senior roles for large publishers across Europe. Specialist subjects include small business and financial emerging markets.