Ashfords is partnering with UKREiiF to deliver a timely panel session at the 2026 forum, examining the challenges and opportunities shaping the future of the UK’s coastal communities.
Taking place on Tuesday 19 May from 3:00 to 4:00pm in the Dockside Pavilion, the session - “Coastal Communities : the next big opportunities for growth?” - will be of interest to those working in local government, commercial and residential development, ports and harbours, finance and investment, and the wider coastal economy.
The session will include an expert panel of speakers including:
The panel discussion will explore the practical realities of coastal regeneration and what is the blueprint for creating coastal powerhouses; including where progress is being made, what holds projects back, and how public and private sectors can work together to unlock growth. Panellists will consider the role of planning, commercial and residential development, port & harbour infrastructure, private sector investment, and wider marine related activity in driving positive community, environmental and economic outcomes.
Matt Christie, Director UKREiiF said:
“We’re pleased to be working with organisations such as Ashfords to expose the challenges and opportunities facing the UK’s coastal towns across UKREiiF 2026’s agenda. There’ll be a variety of activities across all three days central to which is a high-profile panel discussion featuring Rt Hon Anna Turley MP and experts who are delivering regeneration in coastal powerhouses. Ashfords have been integral to shaping this stream of content and I am looking forward to unlocking new projects alongside them and other participants!”
Coastal regeneration often involves complex development environments where early decisions shape cost, risk and delivery, alongside coastal specific issues such as flood defence, marine licensing and navigation rights. The Ashfords team draw on extensive experience of these issues to advise on coastal and urban regeneration projects across the UK, including mixed-use waterfront development, housing and commercial schemes, port and harbour projects, and supporting energy and infrastructure work.
UKREiiF brings together over 16,000 professionals annually from across real estate, development, infrastructure, government and investment. Taking place from 19–21 May 2026 in Leeds, the event is a national platform for accelerating regeneration and connecting policy and investment with real opportunities on the ground.
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