National Urban Design Conference 2026
The built environment conference that welcomes everyone!
We believe that we can only deliver better places through collaboration and by working together across sectors, professions and with communities.
This year, we will explore the theme ‘Places for LIFE’, drawing inspiration from Glasgow and beyond. Expect an outstanding programme featuring leading speakers, guided walks, engaging discussions, and plenty of opportunities for meaningful conversations and networking.
Throughout the programme, we will explore the following topics:
- Places after dark
- Design for easy navigation
- Heritage and distinctiveness
- Making towns and cities for women and girls
- Safer parks and greener streets
- Creating places for children
Further themes and topics to be announced in due course.
Confirmed speakers and programme contributors
Many more leading, inspiring and not-to-be-missed speakers to be announced soon:
- Dr Laura Alvarez, Nottingham City Council
- Professor Husam Al Waer, University of Dundee
- Ciaran Buchanan, Glasgow City Council
- Kit Bullas, John McAslan + Partners
- Dr Robyne Calvert, Cultural Historian and author of The Mack
- Bea Chivers, Ryder Architecture
- Dr May East, UN House Scotland
- Brian Evans, formerly of Gillespie
- Lucy Fineberg, UMC Architects
- Anna Gaffney, A Place in Childhood
- Dr Lucrezia Gigante, University of Glasgow
- Professor Kate Jeffery, University of Glasgow
- Chris Martin, Urban Movement
- Daniela Miler, A Place in Childhood & AtkinsRéalis
- Marina Milosev, Beyond the Red Line
- Niall Murphy, Glasgow City Heritage Trust
- Daisy Narayanan MBE, The Crown Estate
- Hannah Smart, edge Urban Design
- Paul Stallan, Stallan Brand
- Rob Thompson, Rob Thompson Urbanism
- Nick Walker, Iceni Projects
Key dates
Welcome Evening Drinks - 7 October
Conference Day 1 - 8 October
Conference Day 2 - 9 October
Extra visits - including Cumbernauld New Town
Whether you are involved in urban design, planning, development, delivery, policymaking or community engagement, this is your opportunity to connect with people from across the built environment, share ideas, learn from leading practitioners, and help shape the future of successful places.
We look forward to seeing you in Glasgow!
