Role of URCs may change in a new age

The demise of Bradford's urban regeneration companies, Bradford Centre Regeneration, and the Tees-side URC, Tees Valley Regeneration -- both of which are due to cease operations in March 2010 -- suggests that the concept of such companies is becoming outdated. David Walker, CEO of URC Sunderland Arc, says its status is being kept under review. Martin Crookston, a director of public services consultancy Tribal and a member of the Urban Task Force, says URCs were a useful invention of the task force but they are now adapting and changing. Adele Lewis-Ward, manager of the HCA's new ventures and partnerships directorate, argues that URCs' role has become more important due to the economic downturn.