Community-led renewal: What places need and how we deliver

23 Jun 2026
The Great North Theatre - Charter 3
The Great North Theatre - delegate only - Charter 3

This session will highlight what place‑based renewal looks like in real life through the experiences of residents, neighbourhoods and frontline teams. Drawing on insight gathered through the Renew inquiry, speakers will unpack what it takes to make regeneration work on the ground: coordinating local services, designing change with communities, and overcoming the practical barriers that emerge at neighbourhood level. This people‑focussed conversation will address what communities say they need and how local partners can respond effectively.

Chair
Claire Warren
Claire Warren, Chief executive, Pickering and Ferens Homes
Speakers
Cedric Boston
Cedric Boston, Group chief executive, Unity Homes and Enterprise
Louise Davies
Louise Davies, Executive director of communities and regeneration, Cobalt Housing
Darren Sterling
Darren Sterling, Assistant director strategy and community regeneration, Newcastle City Council
Kemoy Walker
Kemoy Walker, MSV Housing