MIPIM 2026 | Edge of opportunity: Unlocking growth through regeneration at the urban fringe

Across the North of England, cities and towns are grappling with how to unlock the potential of their inner‑city edges and fringe neighbourhoods. Often shaped by the legacy of deindustrialisation, these areas sit between established centres and expanding suburbs and often carry the greatest complexity. From infrastructure constraints and viability challenges to land assembly and long‑term community impact, these are the places where regeneration can have the most transformative effect.

“Edge of Opportunity” shines a spotlight on the opportunities emerging across the North, exploring how strategic investment in fringe locations can drive wider economic renewal across the region. While the conversation is rooted in Northern growth priorities, the panel will also draw on select examples from other parts of the UK, including London, the Midlands and the South West, to reveal broader lessons that Northern cities can adapt and apply.

What you’ll learn

• How Northern regeneration projects are tackling viability, connectivity and infrastructure barriers to create investable places.
• Approaches that successfully attract private capital into challenging urban environments.
• Community‑led strategies that ensure regeneration supports existing residents and strengthens local identity.
• How cities can better guide “sprawl” and growth at their edges, using planning, transport and economic interventions to unlock long‑term value.
• Transferable lessons from major projects nationwide, offering comparative insight to inform Northern decision‑making.