Much of current urban policy is focused on the regeneration of urban centres and concentrates on the role of big cities as engines of regional economic growth. As a result, high-profile town and city centre renaissance – with stylish shopping centres, new jobs and apartment blocks – has been hitting the headlines in recent years. But how can we maximise the benefits of these developments? What is the role of local councils and regional and national bodies?

Download the speech given by Dermot Finch at this event.