UKREiiF 2025 brought together thousands of people from across the built environment sector to explore the future of places, projects and policy. It was great to be part of that energy, with Mark, Suzanne, Paolo, Stephen, Marta, Eric and Katie attending across the course of the event to represent GT3 and Regen Partner.
The challenges facing the industry were clear. Conversations around financial viability, funding uncertainty and rising construction costs came up repeatedly, particularly concerning leisure and residential projects. Local authorities and clients spoke candidly about the barriers they are facing, with devolution continuing to shape local capabilities in both positive and complex ways.
But despite the challenges, there was a noticeable shift in tone. Clients and collaborators are open to new ways of working. There is a real appetite for practical, people-focused solutions, and for delivery models that help unlock stalled sites or bring new life to existing places.
This mindset reflects our approach. We are focused on driving development through regeneration and supporting local authorities with more viable, community-minded options. Progress through collaboration remains at the heart of what we do.
One of the highlights of our time at UKREiiF was hosting a roundtable on sport and leisure. It created space for focused, sector-specific conversations. These smaller discussions often led to clearer direction and more honest reflections than the larger panels, offering a valuable opportunity to compare challenges, share learning and highlight what’s working.
Fringe events were also a key part of the experience. They gave us the chance to connect more naturally, adjust plans on the go and make the most of who was in the room. That flexibility really paid off, and it’s something we’ll lean into even more next year.
The big takeaway? There is a definite shift from talk to action. A growing sense of urgency is emerging, along with a shared understanding that old models need to evolve.
