Yorkshire Forward’s renaissance towns and cities programme was launched in 2001 as an innovative initiative for Yorkshire & Humber. The programme aims to deliver the emerging national agenda for more liveable and economically successful communities.

The concept of urban renaissance, as developed during the late 1990s and early years of the twenty-first century has encompassed a more holistic approach in which the quality and comprehensiveness of urban design came to be regarded as the distinctive element. Through renaissance activity, the concept of active citizenship in being revitalised in Yorkshire and Humber, and more people engaged in taking responsibility for our towns and cities. Public realm improvements belong to everyone and every individual has a responsibility of care.

The renaissance towns and cities programme is active in nineteen towns, all of which having completed their visions and masterplans are now developing implementation plans, which will include the identification of a portfolio of prioritised projects with defined delivery mechanisms and timescales.

The renaissance towns and cities programme has worked to create a long term 25 year vision in nineteen urban towns and the city of Leeds, helping to define new approaches to regeneration based on ‘quality of place'. The initial aim was to help local authorities and other interested parties rethink the purpose and physical form of their towns. Lead panellists were appointed to work with each Town Team, developing the vision and working with the community.

Yorkshire Forward is now completing early interventions in an envisaged 25 year process of radically changing mid-scale urban places, and the way in which these places are regarded by their residents, by visitors and by investors.

The renaissance towns and cities programme is beginning to deliver on its promises, developing long term visions into practical projects to catalyse real change at a local level.

Yorkshire Forward (Head Office)
Victoria House - Victoria Place
LS11 5AE Leeds
United Kingdom
Phone: +44 113 3949600
Fax: +44 113 2431088
http://www.yorkshire-forward.com
Barra Mac Ruairi (Head of Renaissance Towns & Cities), tel. +44 113 3949941

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Urban Policy

Urban environment