BIG MEET 9 will focus on the complex question of local leadership in place making. In particular, as we gear up to produce more housing as a nation, we need to be careful that we are creating real places and communities rather than isolated and unsustainable estates. This will require a clear vision within local authorities and backing from Central Government to prioritise quality in design rather than development for development sake.

The agenda for the day will explore the national picture, examine the key components of placemaking, discuss the latest research evidence, and explore how localities are rising to meet the challenge.

BM9 will also host the launch of “Place Value and the Ladder of Place Quality“, a Place Alliance guide for decision making about the built environment, supported by the Design Network.

Through the Ladder of Place Quality, the report presents a simple tool for architects, planners, councillors, developers and citizens to quickly assess and advocate for high quality places when making policy, project or investment decisions that affect the built environment

Confirmed speakers: Matthew Carmona, Prof of Planning & Urban Design at UCL and Chair of Place Alliance – Dan Roberts, Senior Specialist in the Planning, Enabling & Development at Homes England – Frederic Saliez Deputy Director at the Brussels Liaison Office of the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) – Katja Stille, Director at Tibbalds Planning and Urban Design – Carmen Mateu-Moreno, Future Place Project Manager at RIBA – Amy Harrison, Head of Learning and Participation at The Architecture Centre Bristol – Julie Tanner, Panel Manager at Creating Excellence – Esther Kurland, Director Urban Design London

More speakers to be confirmed.

Further details and bookings here