Business South’s latest Regenerate South Action Group meeting covered a review of the recent Regen South Annual Conference, a presentation on what the new Prime Minister could mean for the built environment across the Central South, an update on the delivery of the Priorities for Good Growth document, and a discussion on using and adopting AI in the industry.
The Regenerate Central South Conference demonstrated the “huge amount of momentum in every direction” according to Ian Dewhurst (Associate Partner at Ridge), and that it highlighted the breadth of activity and opportunities emerging across the region for investors and development.
“Good growth in every postcode”
Oli Hazell of Cavendish provided an update on the political landscape and what the new Government could mean for planning, housing and regeneration.
Burnham’s Government is expected to place a strong emphasis on housing, regeneration and place-based growth by making the case for development through the tangible benefits to communities, including new homes, infrastructure, transport connections and employment. Referencing Andy Burnham’s ambition for “good growth in every postcode”, Oli stressed the importance of ensuring growth delivers benefits across the country.
The discussion also covered the growing importance of devolution and mayors, alongside the Government’s housing ambitions and the need for the public and private sectors to work together to deliver them.
Unlocking development and investment
The meeting also heard an update on the progress on delivering the Priorities for Good Growth Document. Firstly, an update from Facilitating Development Taskforce Group, which is reviewing stalled sites and development opportunities to unlock the economic potential across the region. Regenerate South Chair Gavin Hall spoke on behalf of Cat White who leads the group, highlighted positive progress on projects including Southampton’s Bargate Quarter and the former Toys R Us site, as well as collaborating with the Local Authorities at the next meeting.
As part of delivering the Priorities for Good Growth, Business South has appointed Catherine Igoe as its new Inward Investment Officer. Leigh-Sara Timberlake, CEO of Business South, explained that the appointment strengthens the region’s capacity to convert growing investor interest into tangible opportunities. Catherine will work with businesses and local authorities to support investment across the Central South.
Members also heard from Stephen Lowe of the University of Southampton on the forthcoming Clean Energy South report. The report will explore the region’s energy challenges and opportunities and supports the priority identified through the Priorities for Good Growth work.
The meeting concluded with Dr John Flackett, co-founder of AI Lab discussing the importance of adopting AI responsibly within the regeneration sector. He is running a workshop on the responsible use of generative AI in the regeneration sector on 26 November, 09:00–13:00, at Kimbridge Barn. For more information and bookings, click here.
The meeting demonstrated the strong momentum building across the Central South, with continued collaboration between businesses, local authorities and other regional partners key to turning opportunities into sustainable growth.
