We help build better cities through knowledge, networks and leadership
Empowering residents and increasing equality and inclusion can boost community cohesion – as well as keep communities resilient in tough times. In this case study of Grahame Park in Barnet, we explore the benefits of investment in community development programmes, and how they’ve flexed in lockdown.
Case study exploring how a temporary parklet in Fitzrovia, Central London has helped foster a sense of community and connect commuters with local residents and businesses, even during the pandemic.
Since the start of the pandemic people of all ages now spend more time outdoors – and the public realm has taken on a new significance in community life. As we look towards a post-pandemic future, this case study explores Thamesmead, the lessons we can learn from how communities have used outside spaces during lockdown and how landscape-led placemaking prioritises and strengthens community.
As part of London Climate Action Week, on Wednesday 18 November, Future of London looked beyond net zero. We discussed the roles of green infrastructure and regenerative architecture, the importance of tackling both health inequalities and environmental inequalities, and how we can better involve local communities and better collaborate across sectors.
Community hubs are an important element of social infrastructure, but, as physical meeting spaces, they have experienced huge challenges during the pandemic. Using Acton Gardens Community Centre as a case study, we reflect on the role of community hubs in typical times’, and ask how they can continue to support communities as we navigate the ‘new normal’.
Covid-19 has radically altered urban life. Future of London spoke to housing, enforcement, planning and regeneration professionals in our network about the impact of the pandemic on the public sector and how they’ve been delivering city services.
At a Bartlett Real Estate Institute event with FoL involvement, panellists discussed possibilities for real estate over the next century. This Spotlight summarises the event.
How do we measure the success of a place when compared to its surrounding neighbourhood or city-wide economy? FoL Alumni and invited guests came together to explore this question and consider how some of London’s most high-profile regeneration projects perform against a more holistic view of placemaking.
FoL’s Housing Older Londoners report summarises our Ageing Cities work, exploring how London can improve older people’s standard of living through better policy, housing and neighbourhoods.
This grassroots walking tour offered a first-hand look at and insight into a proposed ‘Camley Street Sustainability Zone’ north of King’s Cross.
This Spotlight looks at the Mayor’s Crowdfunding Programme, an initiative managed through the GLA to provide funding to community projects.
Our next CiT field trip will be to Poplar on 24th September, looking at how local markets can support regeneration and how empty spaces can be put back into use.