Nathan Spencer
Managing Director, UKREiiF
Public-private collaboration is vital for addressing rising housing demand, underutilised land and sustainability challenges, unlocking significant investment and driving transformative real estate projects.
By leveraging the unique strengths of both public and private sectors, these partnerships can deliver large-scale developments that yield significant economic and social benefits.
Collaborative housing strategy
A prime example of this collaborative approach is Homes England, the UK Government’s housing accelerator. Tasked with delivering 1.5 million new homes by 2029, Homes England will play a pivotal role in achieving the Government’s target of delivering 1.5 million new homes by 2029 — partnering with developers, local authorities and housing associations to address the nation’s housing shortage.
The public and private sectors
can drive large-scale projects
that meet housing demands.
Public-private housing investment model
By combining public funding and oversight with private sector efficiency and investment, Homes England has unlocked dormant and difficult-to-unlock development sites and accelerated the delivery of affordable housing. This model not only de-risks projects for private investors but also ensures alignment with broader societal goals, such as urban regeneration and sustainable community development.
In a similar vein, the UK Government is exploring the consolidation of public sector pension funds to unlock substantial capital for infrastructure and housing projects. Chancellor Rachel Reeves has announced plans to merge the 86 Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS) funds, which collectively manage £354 billion in assets, into larger ‘megafunds.’ This consolidation aims to unlock around £80 billion for investment in infrastructure and housing, directing significant capital into high-impact regeneration and real estate development projects.
Partnerships driving development
These initiatives underscore the critical role of public-private collaboration in shaping the future of real estate development. By pooling resources, sharing risks and aligning objectives, the public and private sectors can drive large-scale projects that meet housing demands, stimulate economic growth and create sustainable communities. As the landscape of real estate continues to evolve, such partnerships will be instrumental in building a resilient and inclusive future.
Public-private collaboration isn’t just a strategy; it’s the foundation for overcoming today’s challenges and shaping the real estate developments of tomorrow, which we will see continue to blossom as the future of the industry.
To learn more about UKREiiF, visit 2025.ukreiif.com/en/about-event
