Delivering more sustainable and resilient communities across the West of England was the focus for Thrings’ Development of Land Seminar.
Almost 100 professionals from across the built environment, including leaders in development, planning and construction, were in attendance for the breakfast event held at the Watershed in Bristol on Thursday, 26 March. The event paired policy insight with practical expertise to explore how long-term growth can be secured.
The seminar opened with Stephen Peacock, Chief Executive of the West of England Combined Authority (WECA) providing an overview on strategies coming through the Combined Authority to usher in growth, before taking questions from the audience in a Q&A session led by Ros Trotman, Thrings’ Head of Development of Land.
Topics ranged from the current state of housing and transport in the West of England to the receptiveness of central government to development in the West of England and the power of optimism to inspiring change. Mr Peacock concluded by reflecting on how the region talking with one voice could change perceptions and help to raise its national profile.
The Q&A was followed by Thrings’ Development of Land Partners Naomi Manton and Mary Waters who covered the headaches of development and the simple solutions that can be taken to remedy them.
From the challenges often arising in heads of terms and due diligence, to the surprises that can be unearthed around unregistered land and access. The pair provided constructive solutions to some of the key issues they see their clients face in getting projects over the line.
Together, the discussions reinforced a shared commitment across the region to unlocking development that is not only viable, but sustainable and resilient for the long term.
Ros Trotman said: “With the West of England region continuing to grow, a strategic approach has never been more important to ensure that growth is sustainable and aligned so that our communities can grow and thrive, a view that was clearly shared by our audience today.
“It was fantastic to have Stephen join us and share some key insights into what the future could hold for our region and a peek behind the curtain of WECA’s work to coordinate the overarching strategies for development and transport.
“It has been great to receive such positive feedback from the event. We are already looking forward to what we can bring to the table next time!”
The Thrings Development of Land team are experienced specialists in all aspects of the built environment, working with landowners, developers and businesses. To find out how they can assist in the success of your development project, please get in touch.
