The National Conference on Urban Design

Urban Design on the Edge

21-23 October 2010

Location: Leeds Metropolitan University

Those who practice and promote urban design have long ascribed to the view that there is a close link between the quality of places and their economic success and viability.  But what happens to places in an age of austerity when urban design is ‘on the edge’?   What role do those involved in shaping the urban environment have to play in an era of cuts in the public sector and when the private sector is being starved of funds for development?  What can we learn from places and projects that have already shown us how to live - and thrive - in the current economic context? How should urban designers work with and alongside local communities and their elected representatives to help fulfil their potential?  How can we also continue to address other pressing challenges for place-making such as enhancing social and cultural cohesion and environmental sustainability?

Over the course of its three day programme, the National Conference on Urban Design will bring together a wide range of experts who have already begun to address the contemporary challenges facing our neighbourhoods, towns and cities. 

Participants will have the opportunity to:

• Hear from those involved in innovative projects that have successfully engaged with - and made the most of - the relationship between design and local economic sustainability. 
• Review and debate appropriate responses to key contemporary design, social, economic, political and environmental issues.
• Examine the contribution practitioners in urban design can make to addressing current and future problems and learn through examples about what works and what to do next.
• Explore key case studies from Leeds and the Yorkshire region, through presentations and study tours.

For full programme information and details of how to book, please see the pdf below or contact admin@udg.org.uk

Related files

> UDG Conference 2010 Programme