Professor Steve Millington to speak at National BIDs Conference 2026

Professor Steve Millington, Professor of Place Management and Faculty Academic Lead for Research Impact at Manchester Metropolitan University, will speak at this year’s National BIDs Conference. His appearance reflects the growing collaboration between the Institute of Place Management (IPM) and British BIDs.

Taking place on Wednesday 4 November at 30 Euston Square in London, the conference will explore the challenges and opportunities facing Business Improvement Districts and the places they serve. Under the theme BIDs & Our Places – Shaping the Next Era, the programme will cover growth strategies, devolution, the Overnight Visitor Levy, government policy and the future of place leadership.

Steve is an expert in high street regeneration and town centre vitality. He works with BIDs, local authorities and research networks in the UK and internationally to develop place-based strategies and inform urban policy.

He co-authored the High Street 2030 Report, produced to support the Timpson Review of the High Street, and later designed and delivered the National High Streets Task Force Placemaking Programme, which supported 40 towns across England. Steve currently leads the Institute of Place Management’s Vital and Viable programme, providing guidance and support for high streets in the UK and beyond.

The conference will also offer dedicated opportunities to connect with colleagues from across the BIDs and place management sectors. Further programme details will be announced soon.

Find out more and book your ticket: National BIDs Conference 2026