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Britain’s cities have undergone a remarkable reinvention over recent decades. Once characterised by derelict Victoriana or post-war concrete, many urban centres have been reshaped through large-scale transformative projects, this report’s definition of regeneration.
Heritage buildings have been repurposed; new quarters provided with high-quality public space, anchored by cultural institutions; and city living has become mainstream. These efforts have helped turn such locations into vibrant destinations that attract investment.
But this transformation is uneven and fragile. Gleaming new buildings sit cheek-by-jowl with obsolescent, empty buildings and deprived enclaves, while local authority budgets are under extreme pressure.
Cities and towns have ambitious plans to continue to address these problems. But since the pandemic, rising construction and debt costs, stalled projects, and slowing demand have undermined progress. The sense is growing that Britain’s urban fabric is beginning to fray.
Nevertheless, there is optimism – and not without reason. Some projects are making progress despite the headwinds; others are creating inventive frameworks and approaches to enable it in the future. This report explores the state of regeneration across the UK – and the future of it – by drawing on:
Site visits to eight major regeneration projects – Elephant Park, Old Oak Common, Royal Albert Dock (London), Bradford, Dundee, Liverpool, Brabazon in Filton near Bristol, and Harlow.
- Interviews with practitioners and stakeholders directly engaged in delivering, financing, and planning regeneration.
- Together, these sources provide a grounded picture: the old regeneration models no longer work, and a new approach needs to emerge.
This research report provides insight into the complex problems surrounding urban regeneration across the UK. For investors, developers, and local authorities, this is not just analysis – it’s a roadmap for action. We highlight where opportunities lie and how you can position yourself to drive the next phase of regeneration.
Click HERE to read the complete research or explore the executive summary HERE. You can also contact Jon or the wider Montagu Evans team to discuss more.
*This research has been prepared for general information purposes only. It does not constitute any investment, financial or other specialised advice or recommendations, and you should not, therefore, rely on its contents for such purposes. You should seek separate professional advice if required.