Economic growth and land management

Includes: infrastructure investment, economic growth and land value uplift

The URBED perspective:

Strategic infrastructure investment fuels sustainable economic growth by capturing land value uplift. Using land bonuses to fund public amenities enables cities to promote equity, support resilient development, and align growth with long-term social and environmental goals, ensuring benefits extend to communities and foster adaptable, inclusive urban environments.

Investing in the green recovery

Investing in the green recovery

The 2009 Budget heralded the prospects for city regions and for introducing “innovative financing mechanisms to support locally driven investment in growth and regeneration”. This paper summarises arguments for enabling county councils and unitary authorities to raise finance to achieve new (and “greener”) housing and local economic development in the right places through infrastructure bonds and “quality deals”. It builds on the pamphlet Funding Sustainable Communities, which reviews the options, and on recent research projects into US and European experience with infrastructure funding and regeneration.
Partners in Urban Renaissance

Partners in Urban Renaissance

This Partners in Urban Renaissance project takes a close look at how urban areas in England are evolving to meet modern demands. It highlights that a sustainable urban revival is happening domestically, without needing to look abroad for inspiration. The report digs into what urban renaissance means, the challenges cities face like global competition and reversing urban flight, plus the different perspectives on how change is managed and driven. It also outlines practical steps and dimensions for success, including community engagement, transport, thriving centres, and more.
New Life for Smaller Towns

New Life for Smaller Towns

“New Life for Smaller Towns” by URBED serves as a practical guide for revitalising towns with populations under 20,000. It presents over 30 strategies across five key themes: enhancing shopping, diversifying attractions, managing transport, fostering community pride, and securing funding. The handbook emphasises the importance of local partnerships and well-researched strategies to attract resources and drive initiatives. Illustrated with more than 50 case studies, it offers insights into successful practices and encourages ongoing community engagement. Ultimately, it aims to empower towns to adapt to modern challenges and enhance their appeal to residents and visitors alike.