North East England returns to major UK real estate conference 

Today marked the launch of the North East England UKREiiF Partnership at City Hall, Sunderland.  

North East England is returning to leading real estate conference UKREiiF in May after a delegation led by Mayor Kim McGuinness came together to attend for the first time last year. 

Partners from across the public and private sectors will unite to highlight the scale of investment opportunity in North East England, a collaborative approach the region is proud to champion. This collective effort will reflect a shared determination to drive long-term growth and ensure the region’s voice is heard on a national stage. 

North East England is a proud region with bold ambition and huge potential as Mayor Kim McGuinness drives record investment in green energy, the creative industries and transport networks. 

Mayor McGuinness and the North East Combined Authority will lead a North East England delegation, joined by all seven local authorities and private‑sector partners to collectively champion the region’s ambitions and strengths to decision makers, industry and investors. This major moment will share the region’s ambitions for the future, accelerate investment and drive inclusive economic growth. 

This event launched plans for UKREiiF 2026 and ambition to build on the momentum of last year’s event. Event themes will focus on creative industries and vibrant communities, how clean energy and offshore wind will power the future, innovation & the AI Growth Zone. 

Taking place from 19–21 May at the Royal Armouries Leeds & Leeds Dock, the UK Real Estate Investment and Infrastructure Forum (UKREiiF) brings together people, places and businesses to unlock sustainable and transformational investment. The North East England Pavilion, positioned prominently on the dock, will host a three‑day programme of events and opportunities to engage with investors. 

Since its launch in 2022, UKREiiF has grown into one of the UK’s largest investment gatherings, attracting more than 16,000 attendees each year. This year’s event offers the chance for North East England to assemble its biggest and strongest delegation to date, working collectively to secure investment and elevate the region’s profile on the national stage. 

The North East England delegation to date includes Newcastle International Airport and Knight Frank. 

North East England is a proud region with bold ambitions and huge investment, as Mayor Kim McGuinness drives record investment in green energy, the creative industries and transport networks. 

North East Mayor, Kim McGuinness, said:  

“I am really excited North East England is returning to UKREiiF this year to speak with a single powerful voice about the fresh offer we can make. We are investing record amounts in growing our green energy sector, in building thousands of new homes in new urban neighbourhoods, and in landmark cultural projects such as the Crown Works film studios and a new arena on the banks of the Tyne. 

“In North East England business and the public sector really do work hand-in-hand to create real opportunity and fertile ground for investment. I look forward to joining good friends from our business community to welcome you as delegates, investors, and neighbouring regions to our North East England Pavilion. Come in to find out just how much we have to offer.” 

Cllr Michael Mordey, Leader of Sunderland City Council, said:  

“It’s fantastic to see local authorities from across the North East joining forces to showcase everything that is great about our fantastic region. 

“Thanks to the Mayor and more devolved powers from Government, we have been able to drive forward with some seismic developments for the area, from new leisure and retail hubs to the Creative Mayoral Development Zone at Riverside Sunderland. 

“The zone has already unlocked vital funding for the first phase of the Crown Works film studios, new urban neighbourhoods and projects to boost the city’s creative sector, helping secure investment from across the globe as we seek to make Sunderland the new creative capital of the North of England.” 

NewcastleGateshead Initiative (NGI) are delivering this event on behalf of the North East Combined Authority, working with private sector partners.  

If you are interested in being part of the North East UKREiiF Partnership, find out more and get in touch here: https://ukreiif.investnortheastengland.co.uk/