Collaboration across boundaries: Mobilising Local Government Lawyers as Strategic Actors in Regeneration Projects

Reid, Iain ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-2581-1283 and Glennon, Russ ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-0147-3507 (2025) Collaboration across boundaries: Mobilising Local Government Lawyers as Strategic Actors in Regeneration Projects. In: British Academy of Management 2025 Conference, 1st September and the 3rd - 5th September, University of Kent. (In Press)

Accepted Version File not available for download. Available under License In Copyright. Download (453kB)

Abstract

Local government lawyers operate within complex governance ecosystems, balancing legal compliance, stakeholder interests, and the strategic imperatives of local regeneration. Our study examines how cross-sector collaboration and experiential learning mobilise local government lawyers from operational enablers to strategic actors in regeneration projects. Drawing on a 12-month vignette based programme involving 25 local government lawyers, 13 workshops, and facilitated engagement with a private sector law firm, business school academics, and the GM Combined Authority, this research explores the evolving role of legal professionals in place-making. Findings highlight the institutional barriers, knowledge asymmetries, and cultural shifts required to reposition legal expertise within regeneration strategy. By reframing legal services as a public value function, this study provides insights into the mechanisms through which lawyers can navigate inter-organisational complexities, enhance collaborative governance, and contribute to sustainable urban transformation. This research contributes to the discourse on legal service innovation, interdisciplinary collaboration, and the future-readiness of public sector professionals.