“Unlocking brownfield sites for mixed tenure development”, which can now be viewed on YouTube, attracted a broad mix of industry stakeholders including BTR developers, investors, consultants and operators.

Those attending joined experts from NHBC and the wider rental living sector to explore how complex sites are being transformed into viable, successful build-to-rent (BTR) developments.

Hosted by Niki Kyriacou, sector lead for BTR at NHBC, the event’s contributors included Phil Jones, development director at Placefirst; Scott Edwards, commercial manager at Urban&Civic PLC; and Karen Thorton, land quality service manager at NHBC.

A varied agenda covered the political landscape, sector collaboration and the hurdles the industry faces. Real-life case studies were used to illustrate the ways land can be unlocked and attendees were given the chance to pitch questions to the webinar’s presenters.

Advice was given on navigating constrained sites, repurposing opportunities and practical guidance on land viability and delivery.

The webinar also showcased NHBC’s role in the sector beyond warranty, demonstrating its expertise in technical services, site viability and risk mitigation.

Brendan Geraghty, CEO at the Association for Rental Living, said: “We are delighted to have collaborated with ARL members, and NHBC, to facilitate this topical and insightful webinar.

“BTR can be a powerful catalyst for redevelopment, acting as an anchor tenant for brownfield regeneration as part of a mixed-tenure approach.

“This well-attended ARL webinar brought together experts from every stage of the redevelopment process, offering insights into the challenges faced as well as the collaborative solutions available.

“This webinar will help to equip us to develop all appropriate brownfield land into the homes of all tenures, including BTR, in our national efforts to solve the housing crisis.”

Ms Kyriacou said: “I must thank everyone at ARL for organising the recent brownfield webinar and our expert contributors for sharing their knowledge and insight.

“It’s clear brownfield development is only going to increase, as the industry accelerates residential construction across all tenures.

“Complex sites present unique opportunities as well as challenges and it was great to explore this topic with some of the best-known in the sector.”