Governance, policy, finance and community engagement

Includes: local governance, public finance, participation and civic engagement

The URBED perspective:

Inclusive governance and innovative policy frameworks are essential for sustainable urban development. Empowering communities and mobilising private finance foster resilient, equitable cities. Strong leadership, transparent decision-making, and collaborative approaches are crucial to aligning economic, social, and environmental objectives, ensuring cities adapt effectively to future challenges.

Applying land value capture tools

Applying land value capture tools

How can communities harness the value of land to build better places? Some cities, notably in Northern Europe, have avoided the excesses of housing price inflation, congestion and pollution, and thereby kept land costs down. They have instead invested in making active travel and public transportation more attractive than an over-dependence on private cars. This paper summarises the theory of Land Value Capture (LVC) and its role in funding local infrastructure. Further references and examples are set out in Nicholas Falk’s policy paper for the Town and Country Planning Association (TCPA) with eleven recommendations for applying best practices in the UK.
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.
Living Places: urban renaissance in the south east

Living Places: urban renaissance in the south east

This report sets out a framework for the comparatively new concept of urban renaissance as it applies to the South East of England (excluding London) and gives examples, drawn from a range of towns in different parts of the region, which show what is already being done to help bring it about. It is primarily intended for councillors and officers in local authorities in the South East who are concerned about the future development of their towns. It should also be of interest to others involved in investment in urban areas and their professional advisers.
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.