The Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS) is increasingly expected to play a central role in supporting local economic growth while continuing to deliver strong, risk-adjusted returns for members. As devolution gathers pace across England, the relationship between pension capital, regional governance and local investment is entering a new phase.
This seminar will explore how the evolving devolution landscape is reshaping opportunities for local investment, with particular focus on Andy Burnham’s vision of “Manchesterism”—an approach that emphasises empowered local institutions, integrated public services, strategic investment and inclusive economic growth.
Bringing together pension funds, policymakers, investment professionals and local government leaders, the discussion will examine how the LGPS can contribute to regional development through investments in housing, infrastructure, regeneration, clean energy, innovation and productive finance, while maintaining its fiduciary duty to scheme members.
The session will consider the practical implications of expanding mayoral powers, the emergence of strategic authorities, and the increasing alignment between pension capital and local growth strategies. It will also address the governance, risk management and investment challenges that accompany place-based investing, alongside lessons from across the country that may be applicable across the wider LGPS community.
Attendees will gain insights into the opportunities and constraints facing local investment in an era of devolution, and how the next generation of regional governance could redefine the role of the LGPS as both a long-term institutional investor and a catalyst for sustainable local prosperity.
