The Centre for Cities is an independent, non-partisan think tank focused on enhancing the economic performance of the UK's 63 largest cities and towns.125 Established in March 2005 within the Institute for Public Policy Research (IPPR), it became an independent registered charity and company limited by guarantee in 2007 (charity No. 1119841, company No. 6215397).12
Its mission centers on helping these urban areas realize their economic potential through rigorous, data-driven research on productivity, wages, the changing world of work, regional inequalities, high streets, net zero goals, devolution, transport, and business rates.14 Key activities include producing reports, briefings, and blogs; hosting events; and partnering with urban leaders, Whitehall, businesses, and charitable foundations for funding and practical policy influence.134 In collaboration with the London School of Economics (LSE), it operates the What Works Centre for Local Economic Growth, evaluating effective policies for local growth.1
Geographically, its scope is national, targeting UK city economies with a focus on urban economic activity rather than administrative boundaries.15 Led by CEO Andrew Carter since 2017, the organization has shaped urban policy discourse over two decades, including analyses of city centres and governance.24
On housing, Centre for Cities addresses it within broader economic research, such as productivity barriers linked to supply constraints, though specific housing impact metrics are not detailed in core outputs.