Oludolapo Onajin, Architectural Technician, Devereux Architects Limited
"The BURA Regeneration Training Program has afforded me the opportunity of taking my step into the field of Urban Regeneration. As a fully qualified Nigerian architect, I am gravely concerned about the decaying state of, existing, Nigerian Towns and Cities as they rapidly expand without government planning for their sustainability.I left my position of Associate Partner at a major Nigerian Architectural Practice in order to pursue my dreams of acquiring more knowledge of Regeneration. I have been able to gain useful insight into Urban Regeneration issues through the BURA Regeneration Training Program and through interaction with Urban Regeneration professionals and academics at the training seminars. My day to day architectural practice has also been influenced by lessons learnt.
I intend to take the knowledge I have gained back to Nigeria in order to introduce the subject to government, academics and professionals. The setting up of an Urban Regeneration Association is also high on my agenda.I hope someday I will be able to achieve my goals of studying Urban Regeneration at postgraduate level with the aim of becoming a leading figure in the subject in Nigeria and beyond.”
James Walsh, Community Regeneration Manager, Mercian Housing Association
"As Mercian’s Community Regeneration Manager I needed to develop a holistic view of social regeneration and the BURA course has up to now been a real help.Having taken part in five seminars of the BURA training programme I can honestly say it’s been a real eye opener and has impacted on Mercian’s activities in several ways.The course has given me an insight into the economic development of areas where Mercian has significant assets; this has helped enhance Mercian’s Regeneration strategy.The course has also improved my understanding of how social landlords who focus on tackling worklessness and financial inclusion are enabling sustainable communities.
My role is also responsible for Mercian’s Resident Involvement strategy and the course has highlighted how critical community consultation and resident involvement are. From designing new developments to assessing the environmental impact to working with communities to hold job fairs and support services. This has been demonstrated through fantastic case studies showing how effective engagement and consultation has been the key to both small and large scale projects’ success.
The added bonus of taking part in the course is networking with like minded people, both participants and tutors who have shared knowledge and contacts which have allowed me to forge partnerships across the Midlands and save a huge amount of leg work."
Marie-Therese McGivernDirector of Development, Belfast City Council
"The BURA Training Programme brings together the foremost experience and knowledge base on all regeneration matters. It is an excellent introduction for those new to regeneration but also provides further learning opportunities for the seasoned as well. Our own staff have found the experience this year invaluable and we are already seeing a number of tangible outcomes in relation to our work. I would fully recommend this as a worthwhile investment for any organisation working to change the lives of communities for the better."
Keith Girling, Councillor, Shadow Spokesman Culture and Regeneration, Nottinghamshire County Council
"When I was promoted to the position of Shadow Spokesman for the Culture and Regeneration Portfolio, Members Services asked if I wished to attend the BURA training course to improve my knowledge of regeneration issues so I jumped at the chance. Maybe it’s my military background because it was drilled (excuse the pun) into me that training is so important because knowledge and understanding is power. I must say that the BURA course did not disappoint, it’s improved my understanding of the issues facing planners and developers, the social impact of good and poor generation projects and the potential real term benefits of a coherent regeneration policy. I would recommend any elected Member who truly wants to improve their knowledge in this area to attend this course whether they hold a portfolio position or not."
Elizabeth Hartley, Neighbourhood Team Leader, Liverpool City Council
“I have thoroughly enjoyed the 10 seminars of the BURA Regeneration Training Programme. They have all been both interesting and stimulating, covering a wide range of regeneration issues and reflecting current policy and academic thinking. Whether you are from the public, private or voluntary sector, are a seasoned practitioner or new to the ‘regeneration game’, I would highly recommend this course.”
Lili Tabiner, Strategic Development Manager, East Midlands Development Agency
“The Bura Regeneration Course has provided me with an interesting and thorough introduction to urban regeneration. The quality of the teaching has been excellent and the modules have been highly participative, allowing us to exchange experiences with other participants.The course has had an immediate benefit to my work as I have been able to apply the knowledge I have acquired to various projects I am involved with.The blend of theory and practical exercises has enabled us to contextualise the learning and understand the impact of regeneration policy 'on the ground'.I would recommend this course to anyone who shares a passion for improving neighbourhoods and creating sustainable communities.”
