Southampton’s ambitious regeneration programme, Southampton Renaissance, has been nationally recognised after winning the Award for Promoting Economic Growth at the Planning Awards 2026.

The prestigious awards, held on Thursday 4 June at the IET in London, celebrate the very best in planning and the built environment, recognising projects that deliver lasting positive impact through planning, regeneration and economic transformation.

Southampton Renaissance was selected as a standout national example of how long-term vision and strong partnership working can drive sustainable and inclusive economic growth while enhancing the city’s environment and quality of life for local people and visitors.

Delivered by Southampton City Council on behalf of the Renaissance Board and in partnership with a consultant team led by Prior + Partners, the project sets out a comprehensive blueprint for the future of the city. It spans 435 hectares across the city centre, waterfront and surrounding areas, bringing forward a co-ordinated approach to investment, development and placemaking.

At the heart of Southampton Renaissance is a unified vision, supported by Renaissance Area Frameworks, a Delivery Strategy and an Investment Prospectus. Together, these provide a clear and practical plan to unlock growth, attract investment and improve opportunities across the city for local people and businesses.

The programme is grounded in detailed socio-economic evidence, helping to target investment where it will have the greatest impact. It addresses key challenges such as housing supply, connectivity, underused land and inequalities, while placing strong emphasis on environmental quality, green infrastructure and sustainable transport. This approach ensures growth is both inclusive and sustainable.

This national award reinforces the strength of Southampton’s long-term vision and underscores the city’s growing reputation as a place that is ready for investment. Progressing the priority sites identified by Southampton Renaissance is a key objective of our landmark Growth and Prosperity Plan and supports the growing goal of our City Plan.

The regeneration outlined in Southampton Renaissance will help create a more dynamic, connected and prosperous city where residents, businesses and visitors can all benefit from new opportunities and high-quality places.

Tom Venables, Director at Prior + Partners, said: ‘’Southampton has all the ingredients of a successful and competitive city – the challenge lies in turning economic potential into lasting prosperity. Through Southampton Renaissance, we worked closely with Southampton City Council and the city’s Renaissance Board to create a long term vision that connects economic opportunity, placemaking and delivery, helping to establish a shared direction for the city’s future.

“For us, the project was never simply about identifying opportunities for growth. It was about understanding how Southampton’s strengths could be translated into long-term social, economic and environmental benefits for the city and the communities that call it home.

“It has been a privilege to work alongside the Council and the wider project team on a programme of this scale and significance, and to see that collective effort recognised through this award.’’

Councillor Sarah Bogle, Leader of Southampton City Council and portfolio holder for Growth, Prosperity and Culture said: “This is fantastic recognition for Southampton and for the strength of the shared Renaissance vision for our city.

“Southampton Renaissance is about creating a city where growth works for everyone. Through it we are bringing forward new jobs, homes and opportunities, while investing in high-quality places and a greener, more connected city centre.

“This award reflects the power of partnership and gives further confidence that Southampton is a city ready to attract investment and deliver long-term benefits for our communities.”

Southampton Renaissance is already helping to strengthen investor confidence and establish a platform for long-term regeneration, supporting coordinated development across key areas of the city in the years ahead.