Retrofit Connect is a peer learning programme supporting community-led organisations across the UK in shaping retrofit in their neighbourhoods. Working closely with Civic Square, a community interest company demonstrating neighbourhood-scale civic infrastructure for social, ecological, economic, and climate transition, the NRH was invited to play a supporting role in developing an 18-month programme bringing together nine community-led organisations working in neighbourhoods across the UK. This cohort of Retrofit Connect is the Retrofit Reimagined Street Demonstrator and Incubator cohort Each organisation in the cohort is already active on the ground, using retrofit to improve housing conditions and strengthen local resilience.
The programme explores what happens when the conditions for retrofit delivery and the outcomes required are defined by communities. It positions communities in the centre of the process rather than at the tail end of receiving retrofit delivery. It focuses on the practical capability, relationships, and infrastructure required for long term place-based delivery.
Across the UK, retrofit policy and funding are often designed centrally and delivered through short term programmes. Community-led initiatives are demonstrating alternative approaches rooted in local knowledge and long-term commitment to place.
However, these organisations frequently face structural barriers. Access to technical expertise can be limited. Funding pathways are complex. Regulatory frameworks are not always aligned with community scale delivery. Retrofit Connect was established to address that gap.
Over 18 months, the nine Street Demonstrators and Incubators take part in structured peer learning, site visits, and thematic technical deep dives shaped around live delivery challenges.
The programme creates space for community leaders to work alongside industry contributors, housing specialists, and delivery experts. These contributors bring experience in finance, governance, standards, asset management, and retrofit delivery. Together, participants test assumptions, examine trade-offs, and explore practical solutions grounded in real projects.
Themes are co-designed with the cohort and reflect shared priorities. Learning is iterative and builds over time rather than through one-off interventions.
