UKREiiF 2026 brought together local authorities, investors, developers and industry leaders to discuss the challenges and opportunities shaping the built environment sector. Over three days, Alicia, Emma and Amy attended a range of panels, roundtables and networking events, gaining valuable insight into the priorities, pressures and ambitions driving public sector property and planning teams.
From regeneration and investment to workforce challenges and Local Government Reorganisation, several themes consistently emerged throughout the event. Here are our team's key takeaways from the week.
Why do Park Avenue attend UKREiiF?
At Park Avenue, we pride ourselves on providing the best possible service to our candidates and clients. Events like UKREiiF give us the opportunity to strengthen existing relationships, expand our networks and have honest conversations about the market, political climate and finding the right cultural fit for every assignment.
It’s also a chance to step away from the day-to-day operational conversations and hear the bigger strategic visions being shared by our Local Authority partners.
The 2026 Message
A consistent theme throughout this year's event was a call to reframe the conversation around growth. While political change continues to shape the landscape we operate in, speakers repeatedly emphasised that political uncertainty should not limit ambition.
That's not to say the changes can be ignored - they can't. However, the focus should be on continuing to push forward, working towards stronger, more sustainable communities.
Rachel Reeves opened the week by highlighting the government's focus on city regions and the role of private sector investment in driving regeneration. New funding commitments for areas including Liverpool, Greater Manchester, South Yorkshire and the North East reinforced the message that regional growth will be driven by strong public and private sector partnerships.
Alongside investment, collaboration emerged as one of the event's most prominent themes. Across multiple panels, speakers stressed that the challenges facing the sector can no longer be tackled in isolation. Whether between public and private organisations, across neighbouring authorities or internal departments, collaboration is increasingly seen as essential rather than optional.
This was particularly evident in discussions around Local Government Reorganisation (LGR). We heard first-hand how district councils in Leicestershire are already making meaningful progress by working more closely together in preparation for future structural changes. Collaboration through open communication, shared objectives, and a willingness to move at pace; that's where one of the most thought-provoking questions of the week came in:
"Are we amalgamating services, or are we expanding growth opportunities? We need to make this a transformation, not a transition."
The opportunity presented by LGR extends far beyond organisational change. Done well, it creates a chance to rethink services, place-making and growth delivery for the long term.
The challenge now is turning the ideas and ambition discussed at UKREiiF into tangible outcomes over the coming years.
Sector Insights
The Central South - Alicia Gristwood
Basingstoke & Deane Borough Council highlighted several developments already delivering benefits to residents and the local economy, with a strong focus on wellbeing alongside attracting businesses and increasing local spend.
Meanwhile, AGS Southampton showcased the importance of private sector investment in supporting the expansion of their airport terminal and unlocking further regional growth.
Be More Bradford - Emma Dawson
One of the standout sessions focused on Bradford and the city's ambition for growth.
A key discussion, with contributions from Alex Depledge, centred around perception and how outdated views can sometimes hold the city back before conversations have even begun. There was significant focus on improving connectivity, including plans for enhanced rail links that would reduce travel times to Manchester and Leeds.
What stood out most was the confidence with which Bradford's strengths were being championed: its people, culture, affordability, opportunity and future potential.
"Planning Skills: Are We Fit for Purpose?" - Amy Holt
This panel reflected many of the conversations we're already having with hiring managers across local government.
A shortage of mid-level and senior planners continues to be a significant challenge, alongside growing demand for professionals with strong project management skills and hands-on experience delivering complex corporate projects.
Retention was another major theme, with discussions highlighting the importance of strong place leadership and investing in the next generation of planning professionals to meet future demand.
Recommendations for future attendees:
1. Comfortable shoes are non-negotiable.
Expect plenty of walking. Between meetings, pavilions and networking events, we easily hit 13,000+ steps per day. Comfortable footwear will make a huge difference.
2. Agree meeting points in advance.
With limited signal and busy venues, coordinating on the day can be challenging. The event itself is very well signposted, so agreeing meeting locations beforehand will save time and stress.
3. Take in the moment (and don't forget to smile!)
The UKREiiF team do a fantastic job at capturing the energy of the event. It's a busy few days, but it's also an incredibly positive environment. Some of the most valuable conversations happen outside of scheduled meetings, so take the opportunity to engage, network and enjoy the experience.
