Innovation, technology and new approaches to place-making will be the focus of an upcoming online learning event hosted by Scotland’s Towns Partnership, bringing together practitioners from across the public and private sectors to share practical examples already shaping the future of Scotland’s towns.
Taking place Tuesday 24 March 2026, 10:00am–11:30am on Zoom, this event marks the final session in STP’s current learning series and will explore how digital tools, data and innovative development approaches are helping town centres become more resilient, vibrant and economically sustainable.
Opening the session, STP Chief Executive Kimberley Guthrie will set the scene by exploring the role innovation can play in delivering the ambitions of the Scottish Government’s Town Centre Action Plan and the opportunities for towns to adopt new technologies and approaches.
The programme will include short case studies from organisations working at the forefront of town centre innovation. David O’Neil of Miconex and Marcus Chidgey of Loqiva will demonstrate how digital platforms, including integrated local gift card systems and apps, can help increase local spend and engagement.
Further insights will be given Daniel MacIntyre, Empty Business Property Officer, Argyll and Bute Council, and Kirsty Parry of Urban Union on how housing-led regeneration can help bring new life to town centres.
The session will conclude with an open discussion on “The Art of the Possible”, inviting participants to share ideas and opportunities emerging in their own towns.
The event will also launch the ambition for an annual Innovation Show & Tell, creating a platform to share new ideas and celebrate innovation across Scotland’s towns.
The session is aimed at local authorities, town centre managers, community organisations, enterprise agencies, regeneration professionals and private sector partners working to support town centre development.
Find out more about the event, and register here: https://scotlandstowns.org/event/stp-learning-event-4-innovation-show-tell-for-scotlands-towns/
