In this episode of the Grow Places Podcast, Tom Larsson is joined by Gerry Hughes, Managing Director of Gerry Hughes Consulting, to explore leadership, delivery and the realities of urban regeneration. Gerry reflects on stepping away from the corporate world to focus on projects that genuinely “make a difference,” from leading a major city-centre regeneration scheme in Belfast to delivering a cutting-edge nuclear science and clean energy campus near Bristol. Drawing on decades of experience across strategy, planning and executive leadership, he shares candid insights into why delivery in the UK is so challenging — pointing to bureaucracy, siloed thinking and a planning system he believes is fundamentally in need of reform. Throughout the conversation, Gerry returns to a central theme: the importance of strategic thinking, strong leadership and keeping a clear, shared vision to navigate complexity and turn ambitious plans into reality.
The discussion also delves into housing delivery, public–private partnerships and the regeneration of cities such as Manchester and Belfast. Gerry reflects on formative experiences including the East Manchester regeneration framework and the influence of civic leadership in shaping long-term success. In Belfast, where he is now helping deliver a 1,000-home mixed-use scheme in the heart of the city, he describes a people-first approach focused on streetscape, heritage and creating lasting neighbourhoods. Passionate yet pragmatic, Gerry argues for greater risk-sharing between sectors, infrastructure-led growth and empowering cities with stronger leadership. Despite the challenges facing the UK property sector, he remains optimistic — believing that with the right vision, collaboration and courage, places can be shaped in ways that genuinely improve people’s lives.
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