This week, the Rund team was proud to attend the UK’s leading real estate investment and infrastructure forum in Leeds – a standout event that brought together leaders across the built environment to tackle some of the most pressing challenges and opportunities shaping our industry. With themes focused on housing delivery, building safety, ESG, and regional growth, the event offered timely insight into how public and private sector collaboration can accelerate progress and unlock innovation.

Across private, affordable, and Build to Rent sectors, there was a clear acknowledgement of the urgency to meet the UK’s housing targets – and a shared understanding that every player has a part to play. Collaboration emerged as a powerful theme throughout. Greg Hill of Hill Group UK delivered a compelling presentation on the role of joint ventures in unlocking delivery. A standout Build to Rent panel, chaired by Sarah White of Womble Bond Dickinson, brought together sector leaders including Matt Lister of Legal & General Suburban BTR and Steven Clark of Grainger plc. They shared valuable insights into the stability of BTR as an asset class, its growing appeal to institutional investors, and how BTR is complementing the delivery efforts of housebuilders and Registered Providers.

The Midlands stood out as a region full of opportunity. From Walsall Council’s ‘Homes for the West Midlands’ pipeline to Lendlease’s regeneration of Smithfield in Birmingham, there was a strong sense that land which has remained dormant for years is now finally being unlocked. With local authorities, developers and funders aligned, the energy to act - not just discuss - was palpable.

UKREiiF also provided a valuable platform for meaningful engagement. Over three days of purposeful conversations, we reconnected with clients, exchanged ideas with peers, and met new contacts from across the UK. These interactions reinforced the importance of collaboration and the shared ambition to deliver high-quality, sustainable and future-ready places.

For Rund, the event reaffirmed our commitment to supporting clients in navigating evolving regulatory landscapes, embracing digital innovation, and creating long-term social value through regeneration. Thank you to everyone who shared their insights and connected with us - we look forward to continuing the conversation.