We believe that the conversations shouldn’t end with the event and the insights shouldnt stop when the lanyards come off. From housing delivery to authentic leadership, this year’s UKREiiF was rich with insight — and realism.

1. “Big” isn’t the only way to think about scale

In the London Pavilion session on delivering sustainable, future-proof developments at volume, developers made a refreshing point: success isn’t only measured in square footage. Smaller infill schemes, sensitively designed and well-integrated into existing communities, are increasingly being recognised for their value. As we look to deliver at pace and with purpose, these schemes may be a key part of the solution.

But, against this promising vision sits a major challenge: the Building Safety Act. Its ongoing impact was a frequent topic across UKREiiF, with some attendees estimating up to a 50% reduction in housing delivery as a direct result. Developers in Leeds shared how Gateway Two is creating significant delays, and many expressed uncertainty around Gateway Three, the next stage in the process. With limited clarity yet on what this will require, the sector is navigating forward cautiously.

2. Long-term regeneration depends on genuine partnership

The “Unlock Croydon” panel explored the importance of collaboration between local authorities, development partners and communities. With input from Executive Mayor Jason Perry and Adam Smith of URW, it was clear that transparent partnerships are key to sustainable urban growth.

As consultants, it reaffirms the value of engaging early, remaining present post-completion, and treating resident input not as a courtesy but as core feedback. Especially in the face of delivery slowdowns and regulatory uncertainty, clear, trust-based collaboration is one of the most reliable paths forward.

3. Affordability and quality can co-exist – with the right toolkit

At a morning panel hosted by McCarthy Stone and Homes England, the conversation centred on how modern design and construction practices can deliver affordable homes without compromising on quality. From service charge planning to modern methods of construction, the need for intelligent, future-focused thinking came through strongly.

This is a welcome alignment with what we see through our own hereSAY benchmarking work, particularly in how operational planning can unlock long-term value. But while the tools are there, regulation remains a major barrier to speed. As one panelist commented, progress is increasingly being made despite the system, rather than because of it.

4. Authentic leadership is a performance advantage

Our Founder and CEO Debra Yudolph took part in two panels hosted by LRG. The first focused on the future of BTR, including the growing role of single-family housing. The second, EmpowerHER, brought together senior leaders for a candid discussion on women in leadership.

Key takeaways included:

Navigating traditionally masculine energy in boardrooms and redefining what ‘power’ looks like.
Sharing lived experiences to build confidence and resilience when tackling difficult situations.
Encouraging women to lead in ways that are true to their values and personalities, not shaped by legacy expectations.

The message? Leading as you are isn’t just possible, it’s powerful.

5. Sustainability is widening its lens

An afternoon event hosted by Fexco brought Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) into sharp focus — and its implications are becoming clearer across our sector. What once might have been a technical tick-box is now shaping design from day one, and rightly so. We heard again and again that ecological value is fast becoming a central metric for project success.

Later, a session with Muse Places and Lovell on the future of regeneration reinforced this point. Environmental stewardship, social impact and commercial success are no longer siloed goals — they must now be achieved in tandem.

Moments that matter: conversation, coffee and connection

Alongside the formal programme, we co-hosted a breakfast with Fika Interiors and Deverell Smith at Fika’s Leeds showroom — a relaxed setting that encouraged candid conversation. Later, a spontaneous debate between managing agents on the value of SAY’s health checks and asset management services reminded us how shared challenges often lead to shared solutions.

And of course, no UKREiiF would be complete without a few late nights and laughs with old friends.

Looking ahead

There was plenty of optimism at UKREiiF 2025, but also a healthy dose of realism. Regulation, affordability and delivery remain complex challenges — but the appetite to find collaborative, long-term solutions is strong.

We’re leaving Leeds with new insights, renewed energy and a lot to think about. If any of the themes above resonate with your current challenges, we’d be glad to continue the conversation.

Missed us at UKREiiF? Get in touch now.