The English Cities Fund (ECF), a collaborative venture between Homes England, Legal & General, and Muse Developments, has announced a substantial increase in its investment capacity, securing an additional £200 million to accelerate its urban regeneration initiatives across the UK. This boost comprises £100 million in equity, matched by £100 million in debt financing, effectively doubling the fund’s size to £400 million since its initial setup with £100 million in 2001.

ECF, renowned for its strategic approach to urban development, is set to further its commitment to revitalising urban spaces, including a significant project in Stockport town centre, known as Stockport 8, covering an eight-acre site. This initiative underscores the fund’s ongoing efforts to transform urban areas into vibrant, sustainable communities.

Since its inception, ECF has successfully completed five substantial mixed-use regeneration schemes valued at £1.2 billion across diverse UK cities including Liverpool, London, Plymouth, Salford, and Wakefield. Looking ahead to 2036, the fund aims to deliver over 1 million square feet of commercial space tailored to education, 17,000 new homes, and enhanced social infrastructure focusing on health and well-being.

Sir Michael Lyons, Chair of ECF, highlighted the transformative impact of the fund’s investments on cities like Salford, Liverpool, London, and Plymouth. He emphasised the fund’s commitment to sustainable change, long-term vision, and collaborative approach with local partners to deliver comprehensive benefits to communities.

Phil Mayall, Managing Director at Muse Developments, reflected on the fund’s expansion as a testament to its successful two-decade history of urban regeneration projects. With increased resources, ECF is poised to have an even more profound effect on urban landscapes and communities, leveraging its expertise, long-term investment strategy, and development capabilities to generate genuine social value.