DEMONSTRATORS
The transition framework will be tested throughout design and development phases through a series of demonstrators, with the learning fed back to further iterate and improve the project outputs and create new learning and evidence.
We have structured delivery the demonstrators through four different development models that reflect complex nature of the housing delivery. Each of the models brings different challenges and opportunities for delivery and whole-life stewardship of water and housing assets. The boundary between these models is not fixed – these are highly interdependent. The descriptions opposite offer a useful starting point and lens through which to test and bring to life the research, innovation and proposed new approaches.
They are being delivered across a range of different geographies, with each led by cross-sector working groups to ensure that learnings are transferable across different contexts. The demonstrators will involve a range of interventions from physical infrastructure solutions on specific sites, to testing and development of non-structural interventions. The characteristics of each of the demonstrators will be defined following the discovery phase with monitoring and evaluation by our academic partners to ensure that they focus on areas of maximum impact.
Typically led by a local authority, housing association or other non-profit management organisation able to take a longer-term interest and role in delivery, management and a return on investment. This model can enable different funding and financing, greater focus on whole lifecycle value and going beyond minimum standards to deliver cross-sector place-based outcomes.
PUBLIC SECTOR LED
Typically looking for a shorter-term return on investment and more dependent on current market and finance conditions. Often requiring a clear ’exit strategy’ handing over to others to own and maintain assets which can hinder some stewardship models. Can be focused on compliance and minimum regulatory standards, but in the right conditions can also drive innovation and push boundaries.
PRIVATE SECTOR LED
Typically self-initiated housing groups co-creating, co-investing and co-designing new housing, with future community involved from the outset. Typically these are smaller scale developments, with a longer term interest, they often challenge conventional design delivery, financing and ownership models. Often values-driven and keen to innovate beyond basic regulatory standards.
COMMUNITY-LED
The project will explore the role of the water companies as anchor institutions with a long-term commitment to place. Supporting this research, this demonstrator will look beyond business-as-usual to consider how water companies could play a key role in enabling water-smart housing development and wider outcomes linked to new whole-life asset stewardship models.