City Living Summit 2026

Becca Heron has a key role in the delivery of the ambitions set out in the Our Manchester strategy, building on the successes of the last two decades to drive inclusive growth that will ensure the city continues to be one of the most exciting destinations in Europe to live, work and play. Formerly director of economy and skills at Wigan Council, Becca’s career has included a number of different public sector roles, including previous positions within both Manchester City Council and the Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA). During her time with the GMCA, Becca led on a series of high-profile and complex initiatives, including the development of 2014 Devolution Agreement. At Wigan, she took on the economic development and regeneration brief, playing a pivotal role in bringing key sites forward for development and kickstarting the redevelopment of Wigan town centre.

Ed is head of operational living research at Bidwells, overseeing research and analysis for a range of clients across BTR, Co-Living, and Single Family Housing Sectors across the UK. He has eight years’ experience in Build to Rent research and is particularly enthusiastic about city centre living, growing northern cities to reach their full potential, place-making, and urban regeneration.

Alan Bevan is owner and managing director of City Residential, Liverpool’s leading city centre residential specialist. Formerly a sales director at David Mclean Homes, Alan founded the firm in 2000 has become the “go to” agent for the residential market in the city covering residential sales, lettings and property management, student, build to rent and land sales/acquisitions. Alan also produces a quarterly residential report which has become an essential read/summary of the residential market and is renowned for its knowledgeable, honest and informed view of current/future market trends.