Enhancing lives

Great Yarmouth in Norfolk is among five places across England to be announced as participants of a new programme to recognise and support high quality placemaking.

The Future Place programme is an initiative run by the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA), Chartered Institute of Housing (CIH), Local Government Association (LGA) and the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI).

The other places included are Bradford, Gateshead, Greater Exeter and North Northamptonshire.

All five Future Places are determined to deliver meaningful change which will enhance people’s lives, improve community wellbeing and create sustainable environments.

While each place is very different, they all work in collaboration with public, private or voluntary sector partners to develop and advance innovative placemaking strategies.

The five selected places will now take part in a programme to develop visions for their areas, with training and expert advice from each of the Future Places project partners.

Homes England will also join the RIBA, CIH, LGA and RTPI as a partner to offer its expertise and professional skills.

Homes England deputy chief executive, Tom Walker, says: “The Future Place programme provides an excellent opportunity to work with exemplar councils to understand not only the needs of each place, but how best to break down the barriers and get more homes built where they are needed most.

“I welcome this collaboration and look forward to the agency getting involved.”

As England’s established offshore energy sector capital, Great Yarmouth is at the forefront of £39bn of energy investment over the next 20 years, including in large-scale offshore wind.

With a flagship tourism economy worth more than £625m each year, it is also Norfolk’s top seaside resort, boasting a rich cultural heritage including historic buildings and diverse events.

Like many coastal areas, however, the area also faces several challenges, including pockets of social deprivation, low wages, decreased land values, poor health and education.

In order to address these complex challenges for communities, while maximising the opportunities for investment, the council takes a place-based approach to planning and delivery.

It is working closely with partners across public and private sectors to advance a range of exciting work to support regeneration and inclusive economic growth.

Image courtesy of Visit Norfolk.