ATCM Place Management Conference 2024. Part 2.
Session 3 : The Opportunities
Kane Emerson, Head of Housing Research at the YIMBY Alliance
Kane began by referencing Britain's historical identity as a nation of shopkeepers but notes the struggles many places face, indicating a need for innovative solutions to modern crises. He reframed the concept of mixed-use development as a longstanding one, particularly evident in areas like London, as a model for creating vibrant communities.
Central to Kane's thesis is the chronic undersupply of homes in Britain over recent decades, exacerbated by factors such as urban sprawl and remote work. He questioned whether remote work is stifling innovation by reducing opportunities for spontaneous idea sharing and collaboration, while also noting its impact on commuting patterns and carbon emissions.
Kane introduced the concept of "gentle density," advocating for buildings up to eight stories tall to integrate more homes into existing neighbourhoods. He emphasised that well-planned urban housing can help preserve natural resources, reduce emissions, and combat the negative effects of urban sprawl. By promoting proximity living, where residents can live, work, and socialise within a 15-minute radius of their homes, Kane proposed the creation of 15-minute mini-cities within cities.
In conclusion, Kane asserted that the concept of gentle density and 15-minute neighborhoods offers a holistic solution to the crises facing high streets, housing, and the environment. By fostering mixed-use, walkable communities, this approach addresses the interconnected challenges while promoting sustainability, livability, and economic vitality.
Stuart Harris, Chief Executive of Milligan
Stuart provided a developer's perspective on the retail-residential revolution in his speech titled "Retail Resi' Revolution."
Stuart began by highlighting the significant surplus of retail space, estimated at 40% of the total, indicating a substantial overcapacity in the market. Drawing parallels with the situation in the United States, where over 1 billion square feet of retail space is deemed obsolete, he underscored the magnitude of the challenge facing the industry.
Amidst this backdrop, Stuart pointed out the decline of department stores, with an alarming 83% loss since the collapse of BHS in 2016. He noted that universities are recognising the potential of town centres and are increasingly considering re-entering these spaces, viewing it as a once in a generation opportunity.
To illustrate potential solutions, Stuart provided examples of Debenhams stores being repurposed for various uses, including life sciences laboratories, university departments, healthcare centres, and residential developments. He highlighted the adaptability of these spaces, which may involve repurposing existing buildings or demolishing and rebuilding them entirely.
Stuart also mentioned the entry of major retailers like John Lewis into the Build to Rent (BTR) space, leveraging their brand power and ownership of freehold properties to create development schemes.
However, Stuart acknowledged that viability remains a significant challenge for many projects, emphasising the need for partnerships and grant support to overcome these obstacles and successfully transition surplus retail spaces into viable residential and mixed-use developments.
In conclusion, Stuart described the importance of collaboration and innovative solutions to address the surplus retail space issue, emphasising the role of developers, retailers, and government support in driving the retail-residential revolution forward.
Chris Roberts, Chief Development Officer at Bruntwood
Chris presented on the topic of "Getting it Right: High Street Homes in Trafford," focusing on the company's efforts to revitalise the Stretford suburb of Greater Manchester.
Chris began by introducing Bruntwood as a family-owned business operating primarily in the north of England, with a diverse property portfolio spanning three million square feet.
He described Stretford as a suburb dominated by a first-generation shopping center opened in 1969 (by Mohammed Ali no less), which has become obsolete due to its size and changing retail landscape. Bruntwood, in partnership with the local authority, is undertaking a development project to transform the area.
Chris highlighted the growing population in Greater Manchester and the need for more housing, particularly with a strong academic presence and high retention rates of students after graduation.
The focus of the Stretford project is to create a vibrant town centre by reducing the size of retail space while maintaining income levels. This allows for the repurposing of land for housing and public amenities such as community parks and public realm spaces. Chris emphasised the importance of creating an inclusive community and engaging residents in the development process.
However, he acknowledged the challenges posed by higher build costs and slower rental growth, which affect the viability of such projects. Chris suggested the need for new forms of funding, such as patient capital, that are willing to wait longer periods for returns on investment.
In summary, Chris outlined Bruntwood's vision for revitalising Stretford through a mixed-use development approach that prioritises housing, community engagement, and sustainable growth.
Session 4: Making town centre living work
Policy and Practice in the Resi-fication of the High Street: Panel Debate
Chair: Lisa Carlson, CEO, Canterbury BID and Chair of the ATCM
Panel: Sophie Alexander-Parker, CEO, Ipswich Central & All About Ipswich
Mhairi Donaghy, Associate Director - Place, Housing & Economic Investment, Scottish Futures Trust and Vice Chair of Scotland's Towns Partnership
Dr Jo Morrison, Director & Co-Founder, The Association of Collaborative Design
Sarah Porru, Assistant Director of Regeneration (Economy & Business), Bury Council
Summary
Lisa Carlson, in her role as chair, moderated a panel discussion on the intersection of policy and practice in transforming high streets through residential development.
Sophie Alexander-Parker emphasised the importance of connecting with residents as well as businesses to create a holistic vision for town centres. She advocated for broadening the stakeholder base beyond businesses to include community engagement, fostering a collaborative approach to revitalising high streets.
Mhairi Donaghy provided insight into the supportive policy landscape in Scotland for town centre living. She highlighted various housing projects, including community-led initiatives, social housing and specialised housing like dementia care facilities, aimed at integrating residential units into Scottish town centres.
Dr. Jo Morrison, from The Association of Collaborative Design, stressed the significance of authentic stakeholder engagement throughout the development process. She emphasised the need for inclusive decision-making that incorporates the perspectives of all stakeholders to ensure the success and sustainability of high street residential projects.
Sara Porru discussed the increasing role of local authorities in owning or co-owning shopping centres as a means of driving regeneration. She underscored the delicate balance of town centre ecosystems and emphasised the importance of residential units in supporting local businesses and fostering economic vitality.
Overall, the panel discussion highlighted the importance of collaboration, inclusive decision-making, and supportive policy frameworks in successfully integrating residential development into high streets for the benefit of both businesses and communities.
