Highlights of Connections for Prosperity 2026
On 16th July 2026, we welcomed 250 of the region's key decision makers to Edgbaston Stadium for Connections for Prosperity 26. Here's a summary of the day in case you missed it - or want to relive it!
The Day's Programme:
Summaries of some of the day's key sessions:
'A New Political Chapter for Birmingham’
Connections for Prosperity 2026 opened with an engaging interview between Birmingham City Council’s newly elected Leader, Cllr Roger Harmer, and Deputy Leader Cllr Julien Pritchard, hosted by broadcaster Phil Upton.
Against the backdrop of May’s landmark local election result, the conversation explored what the new coalition administration means for Birmingham and how it intends to rebuild trust, restore services and work with partners across the city.
'Where the West Meets the East: Building a Midlands Response to the Northern Powerhouse’
Manchesterism. Northern Powerhouse. Midlands Engine. Levelling Up.
In one of our opening breakout sessions of the day, we asked a panel of experts from across the Midlands region to consider ‘Where the West Meets the East: Building a Midlands Response to the Northern Powerhouse’
Chaired by Tony Smith (Birmingham City Council), the discussion brought together Jonathan Skinner (West Midlands Combined Authority), Matt Russell (East Midlands Combined County Authority), Sarah Spink (Midlands Connect) and Alex Favier (Midlands Innovation), who shared a common message: collaboration across the Midlands is no longer a nice-to-have—it is essential, particularly with the enhanced national focus on the devolution agenda and the increased attention being put onto Greater Manchester with the new PM’s background in mind.
'Affordable Housing – A Regional Success Story?'
The panel session Affordable Housing – A Regional Success Story? brought together senior leaders from across the housing sector to examine whether the Midlands can genuinely claim to be leading the way in delivering affordable homes—and what still needs to change.
Chaired by Joe Reeves, Deputy Chief Executive of Midland Heart, the discussion featured Rebecca Bennett Casserly (Corporate Director of Development and Regeneration, whg), Nigel Wilson (Chief Executive, Trident Group) and Richard Williams (Managing Director, Keon Homes). Together, they painted a picture of a region with significant momentum, strong partnerships and ambitious regeneration plans, while acknowledging the substantial challenges that continue to limit delivery.
'In Conversation with Sir Andy Street'
In a wide-ranging fireside discussion at the Centre for the New Midlands’ Connections for Prosperity conference, former West Midlands Mayor Sir Andy Street reflected on leadership, devolution, economic growth and the future of the centre-right in British politics.
Drawing on his experience in business and public office, he argued that the UK’s long-term prosperity depends on empowering regions, investing in innovation and telling a more compelling story about places like the West Midlands.
'Funding the Regional Government'
In one of the final sessions of CFP26, this discussion explored one of the UK’s biggest economic challenges: how regional governments can secure the long-term funding and financial powers needed to drive sustainable growth. Bringing together perspectives from local government, infrastructure, investment and development, the session centred on moving beyond short-term grant funding towards a more mature, devolved funding model capable of attracting private investment and delivering transformational projects.
The session was led by Luke Ellis (Delivery Director-Combined Authorities & City Regions, AtkinsRéalis), Grace Kneafsey (Capital Investment Lead, West Midlands Growth Company), Richard Bayley (Senior Advisor, AtkinsRéalis) and Alex Housden (Development Director, Smithfield Birmingham, Lendlease)
'In Conversation with Doug King'
Doug King’s fireside chat with broadcaster Phil Upton explored the role that businesses, football clubs and local leaders can play in driving regeneration, pride and economic growth across the Midlands. Drawing on his experience transforming Coventry City FC, Doug shared his views on skills development, infrastructure, place-making, community engagement and the importance of building success from the ground up.
The conversation centred on a clear message: great places are not created through grand promises alone, but through authentic investment, strong communities and consistent delivery.
The Day in Two Minutes:
Playlist
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