Conference focuses on challenges for the growth of Northamptonshire

The University of Northampton's Institute for Urban Affairs hosts a conference at Park Campus next week which will address the impact of the recession on growth plans for Northamptonshire and surrounding counties.
 
The conference, sponsored by the West Northamptonshire Development Corporation (WNDC), features prestigious keynote speakers including:
  • Lee Barron, WNDC Board member and Regional Secretary of the Communication Workers Union (CWC) - "Community Engagement in the Growth of Northamptonshire"
  • Charles Amies, Community and Homes Agency - "What Next for Affordable Housing?"
  • Professor Allan Cochrane, Open University - "Dilemmas of Growth in South-East England"
  • Michael Edwards, University College, London - "The Implications of the Economic Crisis for Sustainable Development"
  • Professor Fred Robinson, University of Durham - "Community Voices - Who is Listening?"
  • Ann Tate, Vice Chancellor, The University of Northampton - "Sustainable Growth and Community Cohesion"
Attending delegates, from various industry backgrounds with an interest in sustainable development, will also have the chance to participate in one of three workshops focusing on economic growth and employment (run by Northamptonshire Enterprise Limited - NEL), environmental sustainability (Dr Janet Jackson, The University of Northampton) or the view from development agencies (WNDC and North Northants Development Company, NNDC).
 
Chris Durkin, Associate Director, the Northampton Institute for Urban Affairs, School of Social Sciences, The University of Northampton, commented:
 
"This topical event brings together practitioners and development agencies from across the region and beyond to tackle how we can develop our communities in the current economic climate.
 
"This is the biggest ever event held by the Northampton Institute for Urban Affairs, a research centre leader in urban and regional affairs."
 
Roger Mendonca, WNDC's Interim CEO, said:
 
"WNDC is committed to delivering sustainable growth in Northampton, Daventry and Towcester but is faced with challenging circumstances in the current economic climate. This event reflects there are also fresh ideas and exciting opportunities to be explored. WNDC is pleased to be supporting the University again an we look forward to discussing future homes, jobs and investment in our region."
 
"Sustainable Growth - Facing New Challenges and Opportunities" runs from 9.30am - 4pm on Thursday 4th December 2008 at Sunley Management Centre, The University of Northampton's Park Campus, Boughton Green Road.
 
For further information please contact Karin Takkou, School of Social Sciences, The University of Northampton on 01604 892067, email: karin.takkou@northampton.ac.uk
 
 

Posted : 03/12/2008