The Power of Data, Investment, and Connectivity in Urban Regeneration
Last week, Jason Chu, our Commercial Manager, was in Leeds for UKREiiF 2025 – a buzzing few days of real estate, regeneration, and big ideas. From great conversations to fresh thinking on how data can help shape better places, it was a brilliant opportunity to connect, learn, and share.
A Dynamic Event in a Vibrant City
The energy at UKREiiF was undeniable, as industry leaders, policymakers, and innovators came together to shape the future of UK development.
“It was fantastic to reconnect with familiar faces while also making new connections,” Jason shared. “Leeds was a brilliant host – welcoming, lively, and full of great spots to unwind between sessions. Walking along the riverside was the perfect way to recharge.”
The great weather only added to the atmosphere, making it the perfect backdrop for open, honest chats about regeneration, investment, and infrastructure.
Key Themes: Data, Investment, and Connectivity
- The Power of Data in Urban Regeneration
Amongst all the panel discussions on offer, there was a particular event focusing on Doncaster, Peterborough & Cambridgeshire, and Torbay & Dover. A recurring theme was the critical role of data in driving successful regeneration projects.
“Data isn’t just numbers – it’s the foundation for smarter, more inclusive regeneration,” Jason emphasised.
He noted that Visitor Insights’ footfall and demographic data can play a crucial role in helping councils, developers, and investors make evidence-based decisions by:
- Identifying high-traffic areas to optimise retail, hospitality, and public space planning.
- Understanding visitor demographics to ensure developments meet community needs.
- Tracking trends over time to measure the impact of regeneration projects.
“With accurate footfall analytics, local authorities can see which areas attract the most visitors and why helping them allocate resources more effectively,” he explained.
- Public & Private Sector Collaboration
Another key takeaway was the importance of joint investment between the public and private sectors.
“For local economies to thrive, we need both public funding and private enterprise working together,” Jason said. “Investing in infrastructure, services, and community engagement is essential—but it must be done in a way that includes and benefits existing residents.”
Visitor Insights’ data can support these partnerships by:
- Highlighting economic activity hotspots to attract private investment.
- Measuring footfall before and after developments to assess ROI for stakeholders.
- Ensuring new projects align with local visitor behaviour to maximise engagement.
- Strengthening Connectivity for Growth
One of the most exciting announcements was the planned rail link between Cambridge and Oxford, a project set to enhance regional connectivity and economic growth.
“Better transport links don’t just move people – they move economies,” Jason remarked. “Connecting key hubs like Cambridge and Oxford will unlock business opportunities, support local communities and encourage sustainable travel.”
Visitor Insights’ mobility and footfall data can help planners:
- Predict how new transport links will impact visitor numbers in surrounding areas.
- Optimise station locations and amenities based on existing travel patterns.
- Monitor post-launch performance to refine future infrastructure projects.
How Visitor Insights Supports Smarter Development
Throughout UKREiiF, Jason spoke about how Visitor Insights’ data solutions empower decision-makers with actionable intelligence:
- Footfall analytics – Track visitor numbers and peak times to optimise retail, leisure, and public spaces.
- Demographic profiling – Understand who visits an area to tailor services and marketing.
- Movement trends – Analyse how people travel between locations to improve transport planning.
“Whether it’s a new high street regeneration or a major transport upgrade, having reliable data ensures investments are strategic and impactful”.
Looking Ahead
UKREiiF 2025 reinforced the power of collaboration, data-driven decisions, and strategic investment in building stronger communities.
“The discussions were inspiring, the networking was invaluable, and Leeds was the perfect host city,” he said. “I’m excited to see how these ideas translate into real-world impact – and I’m already looking forward to next year’s event!”
As urban regeneration evolves, tools like Visitor Insights’ data will continue to play a vital role in shaping smarter, more inclusive, and economically vibrant towns and cities.
Ready to transform your location planning strategy? Contact Visitor Insights today to learn how their advanced footfall and demographic data can help you make smarter, data-driven decisions.