Place shaping for everyone

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Jonathan Glancey’s article “Who will gallop to the rescue?” (November 27) struck a massive chord in Bradford Council’s regeneration department, made up of planning, asset management, transport, housing and economic development

Jonathan might not be sold on the idea of design champions, but we’re sold on the idea that every one that works in regeneration needs to know about place shaping.

This year Bradford piloted the first local authority regeneration academy, expressly created to demonstrate what goes into making a successful, thriving place and the uniqueness of place in relation to Bradford.

It’s an innovative partnership between Bradford Council, Yorkshire Forward, the regional development agency and Integreat, the regional centre for excellence in renaissance and regeneration.

Yesterday the first 55 staff celebrated going through the academy and the next cohort started their first training.

By the end of three years, 750 of our staff will have gone through the academy and developed their skills and professionalism, not only in place shaping, but in leadership and project management too.

It’s for everyone, from the planning enforcement officer, to the economic strategy officer, to highway enquiries, as we all have a role to play in delivering regeneration that works for people.

Barra Mac Ruairí, Strategic director, Department of Regeneration, Bradford Metropolitan District Council

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