City-REDI looks at the role of infrastructure as an essential component of place-based growth and prosperity. Infrastructure investment is one of the most significant ways governments and local public sector stakeholders can influence the economy. But it is by its nature, large scale and long term. It needs consistent and stable policies, which in turn need consistent and stable government at the national and local levels.
We look at transport, housing, energy, communications and digital networks, as part of an integrated system, strongly influencing how and how well regions grow. Therefore it is vital that investment of this scale is grounded in evidence and approached holistically, across all kinds of infrastructure, at the right geographical level. We seek to understand how combinations of people, technologies and markets attract investment in infrastructure. We are also developing tools and methodologies to help design and develop the right infrastructure in the right places, to boost the potential of people, communities and businesses.
Good infrastructure does not just improve regional economic efficiency, it improves people’s lives and life chances. From high quality housing, access to education and employment, clean and affordable energy, clean safe air, reduced crime and better mental health and well-being outcomes.
Research projects