12 Dec 2025
Exploring funding, AI and best practice in the UK’s innovation capital
CIH East of England’s Regional Group hosted a Development, Regeneration and Asset Management Conference on 17 November 2025 at the Meadows Community Centre, Cambridge, bringing together housing professionals from across the region to explore innovation, policy change and best practice in delivering affordable homes and thriving places.
The day opened with a welcome from CIH East lead Suzanna Wood, followed by a policy update from CIH’s director of policy, communications, and external affairs, Rachael Williamson, that set the national context for development, regeneration and asset management. Through a mix of keynote presentations, case studies and interactive discussions, the programme gave delegates practical ideas to take back to their organisations.
Homes England’s Becky Ashley shared a comprehensive guide on the new SAHP and how we can all access funding to deliver the government's target of 1.5 million homes. Further sessions focussed on innovative delivery models from practitioners including Claire Flowers of Potter Raper and legal perspectives from Eleanor James and Rob Beiley of Trowers & Hamlins.
Late morning centred on improving efficiency and the Independent East resident experience in meeting Awaab’s Law requirements, led by Jo Barrett of Thrive Homes. A panel including Alice Moore (Havebury Homes); Michelle Lunt (Orwell Housing); and Andy French (Eastlight Community Homes) explored process design, repairs, resource efficiency and resident engagement to ensure compliance while keeping tenant safety at the heart of practice.
After lunch, a dedicated session on artificial intelligence looked at the implications and opportunities of AI for housing providers, service design and asset management. This was followed by a CIH CHOOSE HOUSING mentoring session with Mica Joseph, showcasing how mentoring and professional networks can support career development in the sector.
The event closed with remarks from CIH engagement managers Becky and Wayne before moving into informal networking, giving delegates time to connect with colleagues and speakers.
Across the day, the focus was on sharing practical tools, regional learning and fresh thinking to support organisations to deliver better homes, safer services and stronger communities in the East of England.
Commenting on the day, Julie Flynn, head of housing management at Thrive Homes, said: “The agenda was relevant and of interest and the speakers were amazing. Not only did I gain knowledge around areas that I don’t work in day to day, but it was a great opportunity to collaborate and make some fantastic new contacts within the region.”
