PROPERTY PIONEER RICHARD UPTON CHALLENGES BRIGHTON PROPERTY SECTOR TO ‘CHANGE THE WORLD’ AT CONSTRUCTION VOICE EVENT

Graves Jenkins has hailed the latest Brighton Chamber Construction Voice event a massive success, following a captivating guest speech by renowned regeneration specialist Richard Upton.

Speaking to a packed audience of property and construction professionals at The Coal Shed, the founder of Cathedral Group and former Chief Executive of U+I challenged standard boardroom approaches to property development. He asked the audience: "Is the construction and property industry responsible for changing the world?"

Upton, recognised nationally for pushing the boundaries of human centred and joyful architecture, outlined his alternative development ethos centred strictly around what he describes as a ‘heritage, art, and an immediate start’ philosophy. Moving away from rigid, spreadsheet driven corporate strategies, Upton emphasised listening to local communities on the ground and treating property development as a powerful force for social and economic good.

Phil Graves commented:

"Construction Voice was created to bring the city’s key property people together to tackle the real issues affecting our built environment. Having someone of Richard’s calibre share such a radical, human-first perspective on regeneration is exactly why these events are vital. His focus on protecting local heritage while introducing art and immediate momentum provides a refreshing blueprint for the future of development in Brighton and Hove. I loved the concept of worthwhile, not meanwhile, use for a site whilst planning is being sought."

The event sparked intense conversation among Brighton's leading architects, developers, property agents and surveyors regarding how the local sector can pivot toward more meaningful, community based growth, with quality architecture built to last.

Graves Jenkins are co-founders and event partners alongside MGAC, Lewis & Co Planning, Hampson Architects, Sunninghill Construction, and the Fairhomes Group.