The Chartered Institute of Housing’s annual conference rocks up Harrogate, June 17-19

With summer finally on its way, now is the time to begin preparing for the Chartered Institute of Housing’s annual conference and exhibition in Harrogate from June 17-19.

The event has become a must-attend for anyone in the business of building affordable housing — not to mention the obligatory cream tea visit to Betty’s Tea Room.

This year, the line-up of speakers is particularly impressive. Housing minister Caroline Flint heads up the list of keynote speakers, and Sir Bob Kerslake will hopefully be explaining more about the newly created Homes and Communities Agency, of which he will be chief executive.

Labour’s Diane Abbott and Conservative ex-minister Michael Portillo will also lead a no doubt healthy debate on how to create successful communities. There will also be sessions on eco-towns, the Housing and Regeneration Bill and sustainable communities.