Crown Estate partners with government innovation accelerator

The Crown Estate has formed a partnership with government innovation accelerator Connected Places Catapult to explore new approaches to urban spaces and placemaking in the UK. The partnership aims to use land owned by the Crown Estate as technology testbeds. Teams from the Crown Estate and Connected Places Catapult will create detailed proposals for joint initiatives to “support the creation of sustainable communities”. A memorandum of understanding was signed earlier this week at the Connected Places Summit by the Crown Estate chief executive Dan Labbad and Catapult chief executive Erika Lewis. The organisations said in a joint statement that they shared attributes that “make this a powerful partnership”. Those include a national geographic remit, a long-term approach, a structure at the intersection of the public and private sectors and a strong drive for innovation and new thinking in meeting key national needs such as net zero, nature recovery and inclusive economic growth. Labbad said: “At a time when we face unprecedented collective challenges to improve the social and environmental wellbeing of communities, working together with like-minded organisations is vital. “Our strategic partnership with Connected Places Catapult will help us deliver the innovative and practical solutions that meet the changing needs of people and the wider environment.” Lewis said: “This unique collaboration brings together the strategic resources and expert stewardship of the Crown Estate with the innovation expertise and convening power of Connected Places Catapult. By joining forces, we can develop new initiatives to drive environmental, social, and economic benefits for communities right across the UK.” Image from the Crown Estate