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As lead for housing and climate change at Calderdale Council, Heidi Waters continues to deliver schemes that set new standards, both for the region and the sector as a whole. Beech Hill, a development in Halifax, required Heidi to navigate complex partnerships, funding arrangements and regulatory challenges.

Bolt Works, opening in May, is Calderdale’s first-ever build-to-rent scheme; it was made possible through Heidi’s strategic vision and ability to unlock funding. When it comes to homelessness, Heidi is leading transformational change. She has spearheaded a groundbreaking initiative with Crisis, the national homelessness charity, ensuring that fewer people have to stay in temporary accommodation and that those who do spend less time there. Under Heidi’s leadership, Calderdale has cut its B&B accommodation costs by 20% while improving housing stability for those in need.

Heidi understands housing as a whole system and uses her skills to ensure every piece of that system works together for the best outcomes. She inspires her team not just by leading, but by doing. Heidi is always at the forefront, turning strategy into action.

The judges said:

“Heidi’s involvement in housing is broader than her job title suggests, and her collaborations and work with partners are impactful. Her strategic and operational examples, and achievements amid financial adversity, are impressive”