Midlands UK, the Midlands-wide delegation attending MIPIM 2017, has revealed the comprehensive events programme it is hosting at the global real estate show (Cannes, France, on 14-17 March).
Major investment projects will be unveiled to a global audience, while discussion panels and presentations will cover topics including connectivity, housing and regeneration.
Over 50 events – featuring nearly 100 presenters and panellists – are taking place at the Midlands UK Pavilion (C16.B), more than any other delegation from the UK. Combined, these events are expected to attract thousands of delegates.
The launch of the Midlands Engine Investment Portfolio on Tuesday 14 March will feature Sir John Peace, Chair of the Midlands Engine. Capitalising on the region’s strong record of attracting foreign investment, the event will present the international community with billions of pounds’ worth of the region’s most exciting range of development opportunities.
Sir John Peace, Chair of the Midlands Engine, commented: “The scope and range of events taking place at the Midlands Pavilion demonstrates how many significant investment opportunities are available across the region. It also highlights the considerable number of partners that are working together to make MIPIM a success.
“It is critical for the economic growth of the region to truly showcase our strengths at MIPIM, which attracts delegates from across the world. The Midlands boasts highly innovative industries such as advanced manufacturing and life sciences, plus major development schemes that are already attracting billions of pounds in investment. Our inaugural presence at the show will prove that the Midlands is one of the most competitive and exciting destinations in the world.”
Planning for the future needs of businesses and residents across the Midlands will also feature strongly at MIPIM. A panel discussion about housing on Wednesday 15 March will look at how the Midlands can deliver the best quality homes for its rapidly growing population.
Other popular events will cover a wide range of topics highlighting the strength of the Midlands as a global investment destination. Several presentations focus on the role of Enterprise Zones in boosting regeneration and unlocking new sites for redevelopment – covering areas including Nottingham, Loughborough, Leicester, Lincolnshire, Stoke-on-Trent, Greater Birmingham and Worcestershire.
Key schemes that will be laid out to investors include the Peddimore industrial site on Tuesday. Unveiled by Birmingham, the 71 hectare site is expected to create more than 250,000 sqm of new floorspace and up to 10,000 new jobs.
Several presentations will focus on connectivity, and the crucial role that expanding air, rail and road networks will play in boosting the economic impact of the Midlands. Royal Assent was recently granted to high-speed rail network HS2, which will become a key topic of discussion, particularly during several events on Wednesday.
With the region responsible for 21% of the UK’s entire manufacturing output, on Tuesday representatives from Coventry, Warwickshire, the University of Derby, Jaguar Land Rover and MIRA Technology Park will highlight how the Midlands can boost its advanced manufacturing sector. A further panel event on Thursday will explore how the Midlands’ automotive sector is setting the agenda for the Government’s UK-wide Industrial Strategy.
To see the full Midlands UK event schedule and for more details on the region’s presence at MIPIM 2017, visit the Midlands MIPIM website. The Midlands UK delegation will tweet major announcements, event images and interviews from its new Twitter handle @UKMidlands.