BTR and all that Jazz - From Edinburgh to Manchester: Unpacking the Future of Built-to-Rent

In a world where housing policy often prioritizes quantity over quality, the Burns Road development in Cumbernauld stands out. Discussed passionately at a recent panel on social and affordable housing, the project was hailed not only for its architectural innovation but for its deep commitment to placemaking, community, and longevity. As panelist Donna Milton put it: “This is the best I’ve ever seen.”

At Il Salotto, host Sara Serravalli brought together three expert voices—Anthony Newman (MLA), Anna Christabel (Page & Park), and Rob Morrison (BEST/VEST)—to unpack the complex, urgent, and often misunderstood topic of retrofitting. What followed was a rich, candid discussion on the challenges, misconceptions, and opportunities that retrofitting presents for cities like Glasgow and beyond.