Urban designer and MADE expert panel member, Nick Corbett has written a new novel about redeeming the city. Arden is the story of a lad from a disadvantaged home, who gives his community a leg up. Events take him on an epic journey from Birmingham to Beirut, via London. To take his place in destiny, he must first return to his roots and rebuild. It is a life-affirming story of friendship, urban life and adventure.

Nick said; “Arden is about the lives of friends, intertwined through the years. I’ve drawn upon the places I know. Readers from the Birmingham area will recognise the locations, including the magnificent Sutton Park".

Nick has lived and worked as an urban designer in London, but he returned to the Royal Town of Sutton Coldfield to set up his company, Transforming Cities Ltd. His first book Transforming Cities: Revival in the Square was published by RIBA and received positive reviews. “I welcome the contribution this book makes,” stated the renowned architect Richard Rogers (The Lord Rogers of Riverside). The Rt. Hon. David Miliband MP said; “A thoughtful book.”

Arden has already had a regeneration impact, with fifty young apprentices working on a trailer film. The apprentices are based in The Public, West Bromwich, where they are breathing new life into the iconic arts building.

Ro Hands, Managing Director of the Learn Play Foundation, which runs the apprenticeship scheme, said: “Working with author Nick Corbett and film directors Croban, has been a valuable experience for our apprentices. They have worked with a real client on promoting an exciting urban novel. The experience will help them in developing their careers.”

Nick Corbett added: “I’m absolutely delighted with the trailer film. The apprentices have a refreshing sense of creativity and storytelling. They are proof that our creative industries have a bright future.”

Learn more at: www.transformingcities.co.uk