Regenerate Central South Annual Conference, themed: Beyond ESG:
Published: July 29 2025
Stakeholders from across the Central South region gathered at AFC Bournemouth for the Regenerate Central South Annual Conference, themed: Beyond ESG: Building a Resilient Central South.
The morning opened with a welcome from Gavin Hall (Savills), who chairs the Regenerate Central South Action Group. A fascinating investment and development update was delivered by Cllr Millie Earl, Leader of BCP Council.
The Environment panel, hosted by Megan Carter (Atkins Réalis), featured insights from George Walters (Utilita), Abby Foster (Ridge), and Dan Walster (Atkins Réalis), who jointly chairs the Sustainable South Action Group.
A Social session with a case study from Sarah Thorley from Savills followed and the Governance conversation between Cheryl Weeks, FSE Group and Lisa Watson-Cook, Lester Aldridge LLP brought the morning session to a close.
During the mid-morning break, attendees had the opportunity to network further and explore stands hosted by Business South Champions, offering insight into local innovation and partnerships.
The afternoon resumed with a full ESG panel expertly hosted by Lee Peck (Lee Peck Media), featuring George Walters (Utilita), Dan Walster (Atkins Réalis), Abby Foster (Ridge), Cheryl Weeks (FSE Group), Lisa Watson-Cook (Lester Aldridge LLP), and Sarah Thorley (Savills). The panel addressed cross-cutting ESG themes and answered audience questions via Slido throughout the conference.
A keynote from Catriona Riddell (Catriona Riddell & Associates) followed, offering strategic insights into regional resilience and planning. The event closed with remarks from Gavin Hall and a networking lunch.
Business South Group CEO, Leigh-Sara Timberlake, said: “The content was thought-provoking and the engagement from the audience shows ESG is a high priority. We wanted to be able to delve into the topic and also highlight best practice.
“Our keynote speaker Catriona Riddell always has something interesting to impart and her update on the return of strategic planning was timely and well received.”
Special thanks to our event partners: Kier, Cavendish, Lester Aldridge, Savills, Lee Peck Media, and AFC Bournemouth.
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