Scottish Cities Alliance

As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, the need for coordinated planning and delivery of housing, industrial development and infrastructure through place-based change has never been more critical.

With this in mind, we’re delighted to be hosting an exciting panel discussion titled  “Driving Place-Based Change Across and Between Scottish Cities,” at the upcoming 2025 UKREiiF conference.

Scheduled for Thursday, 22nd May 2025, at the Arup office in Leeds City Centre as an exclusive, invite-only session, the event will bring together thought leaders, policymakers, and key stakeholders from across the UK to explore alternative models for coordinated planning and delivery within and between Scotland’s cities and city regions.

Meet the panel:

The expert panel is set to include:
 Panelist: Susan Campbell (Director of Market Creation, Scottish National Investment Bank)
 Panelist: Frances Moffett-Kouadio (Strategic Investment Director, Thames Estuary)
 Panelist: Andrew Lewis (Chief Executive, Liverpool City Council)
 Panelist: Phil Witcherley (Director of Economic Growth and Innovation, North East Combined Authority)

As part of the wide-ranging panel discussion, three key themes are set to be explored:

• The importance of coordinated planning and delivery of housing to support growing and changing economies 
• Effective ways to harness collective strengths and assets across Scotland’s cities 
• Alternative best practice models for joined-up urban and regional governance 

The importance of coordinated planning and delivery of housing for changing economies

To attract global investment, Scotland’s cities and regions must showcase ambition and opportunity in a way that crosses geographical boundaries, supports modern sectors, city designs, social trends and infrastructural requirements. Providing housing for a growing and changing labour market is crucial along the way and requires coordinated planning and delivery.

Leading the way in Scotland, The Place Based Investment Programme, backed by The Scottish Government and an initial £325M capital over the next five years, will seek to accelerate the delivery of community led regeneration, housing, community wealth building and town centre revitalisation through projects that align with locally relevant goals that improve opportunities and outcomes for people. Scotland’s cities should also consider leading examples from elsewhere in the UK such as the Liverpool Strategic Partnership, a membership comprising of more than 20 organisations building a framework that provides a better future and a collective, long-term vision for the city by 2040.

Effective ways to harness collective strengths and assets across Scotland’s cities

Scotland’s cities can collaborate to build critical mass, share resources, and reduce risks. By harnessing collective strengths and assets, they can create a competitive economic landscape. Coordinated planning and delivery of housing, efficient infrastructure use, and support for regional transport corridors are key. The Tay Cities Region Deal (TCRD) highlights the power of collaborative working to drive economic growth. Signed in 2020, the TCRD is driving significant economic growth in Scotland’s Tay Cities region, with over half of the £300 million investment already allocated across vital projects spanning culture, public services, life sciences, advanced manufacturing and more.

Through strategic partnerships and collaboration across public and private sector, the deal is transforming the region into a vibrant ecosystem where businesses can grow, innovate, enhance productivity, develop skills and create jobs, fostering a cohesive urban network that competes globally.

Alternative best practice models for joined-up urban and regional governance

The event will explore different models for coordinated planning and delivery of housing, industrial change, and infrastructure, recognising that one size does not fit all and sharing successful examples of strategic economic partnerships from across the UK. The panel will consider what support Scottish cities need from partners, government agencies, and investors, helping local authorities and agencies work together on transformative place-based programmes for integrated urban and regional development.

By bringing together the brightest minds and key stakeholders, this event aims to pave the way for a coordinated and ambitious future for Scotland’s cities and regions.

To register your interest in attending, please get in touch with us at ArupatUKREiiF2025@arup.com