The London Society Podcast

TheLondonSociety
  • 5.0 (2)
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The London Society is for all those who love London. Our aim is to translate and bring clarity to the complex issues that impact on our ‘built environment’ and ultimately the people who live and work in London. Founded in 1912 by a group of influential Londoners concerned about the lack of vision for the future of the capital, for more than 100 years it has brought people together to debate key issues about the future of London. London needs an independent forum that can act independently to support people in discovering and discussing important matters that face the city. The London Society has been and remains that place. Be part of the revival and listen to the debate. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  1. 17h ago

    Talk About London | The London Plan

    This episode explores the draft new London Plan and why it matters for housing, transport, green belt decisions, and long-term city-making. Host Leanne Tritton and co-host Dave Hill speak with Lisa Fairmaner about how the plan is made, who influences it, and why it is both a planning document and a strategic signal to government and investors. Lisa Fairmaner, former lead officer on the London Plan at City Hall and now Associate Director and National Lead for Strategic Planning at ARUP, explains the mechanics behind the plan and the choices shaping London's next decade. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Talk About London | The London Plan

  2. Aug 19

    Talk About London | Is London the Higher Education capital of the world?

    In this episode, Leanne Tritton, The London Society and Dave Hill, OnLondon talk to Liz Hutchinson, CEO of London Higher, and discuss London's position as the global leader in higher education, the sector's impact on the city, and the challenges and opportunities ahead. She shares insights on international student attraction, the diversity of institutions, and the importance of collaboration for London's future as a higher education hub. 00:00 Introduction to London's Higher Education Sector 01:18 Why London is the Global Leader in Higher Education 03:06 The Timing and Purpose of the Campaign 04:18 International Competition and Challenges 08:33 Diversity of London Institutions 09:43 Impact of Visa Policies on International Students 11:25 The Value of International Talent and Soft Power 15:36 Engagement with City Hall and Future Strategies 19:12 University Community Engagement and Local Impact 22:47 Making University Spaces More Accessible 26:13 Mapping and Understanding the Sector 28:19 Pathways and Collaboration for Future Talent 29:49 Using Social Media and Soft Power 31:37 Practical Skills and the Future of Higher Education 34:36 Balancing Technical and Academic Education 36:46 The Future of London's Higher Education Leadership Keywords London higher education, global city, international students, university diversity, sector impact, collaboration, skills, AI, disinformation, city strategy Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Talk About London | Is London the Higher Education capital of the world?

  3. Jul 14

    Talk About London | Inside the plans to transform Oxford Street

    Oxford Street is recognised around the world and is often described as the UK's high street. More than just one of London's most famous streets, it is a global destination whose success shapes perceptions of the capital and the country as a whole. In this episode of Talk About London, Dave Hill, OnLondon and Leanne Tritton, The London Society are joined by Nabeel Khan, Chief Executive of the Oxford Street Development Corporation, to explore the bold vision for its future. They discuss why the Mayoral Development Corporation was created, the powers it has to accelerate delivery, how consensus is being built between businesses, local communities and government, and why accessibility, public realm improvements and long-term planning will be critical to creating an Oxford Street that is fit for the next generation. Introduction to the Oxford Street Transformation Project – 00:00 What is a Mayoral Development Corporation? – 01:32 Why Oxford Street was chosen for transformation – 03:00 The powers and responsibilities of the MDC – 04:08 Geography and scope of the Oxford Street area – 05:34 Legal and statutory powers of the MDC – 06:19 Collaboration with Transport for London – 07:04 Acting at pace: Early wins and timelines – 10:19 Expected changes by October 2024 – 12:55 Design and safety considerations, including hostile vehicle mitigation – 16:21 Changing the role of Oxford Street: From retail to experience-led destination – 19:56 Design review, accessibility and creating a street for everyone – 22:57 Planning authority and governance – 28:26 Developing the local plan and long-term vision – 31:15 Section 106 contributions and community benefits – 34:57 Building consensus among stakeholders – 39:43 The importance of public toilets and clear communication – 44:30 Using the public estate for messaging and engagement – 45:34 Conclusion and future outlook – 48:10 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Talk About London | Inside the plans to transform Oxford Street

  4. Jul 10

    London Explained | Making More Of The Thames

    The latest episode in the London Explained series takes a look at the River Thames and asks if London is making the most of the waterway that gave it life - particularly the part of its north bank, where it flows past the Houses of Parliament and the Victoria Embankment. Could that section of the riverfront - and further east to Blackfriars and beyond - be made more attractive to Londoners and visitors alike, both in its own right and through its proximity to the nearby pleasures of the Strand? Although it's an annual gathering point for celebrations of the New Year fireworks and the Marathon, might it be improved such that more people are drawn to it all year round? And what about its potential as an environmental asset, including for generating sustainable heat?   Combining interviews, archive material and the sounds of the Embankment and the river itself, The London Society trustee and writer Dave Hill tells the story of the importance of the Thames to London's past, its present and its unfolding future. The podcast is produced by Andrew McGibbon of Curtains For Radio for The London Society. It was financially supported by the London Heritage Quarter business improvement district, with The London Society retaining full editorial control. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    London Explained | Making More Of The Thames

  5. Jun 26

    Talk About London | Civic Societies are in the news – what power do they have?

    What role do civic societies really play in shaping London? Are they powerful defenders of local communities, or are they unfairly blamed for blocking the homes and infrastructure the capital desperately needs? In this episode of Talk About London, Leanne Tritton, The London Society and Dave Hill, OnLondon are joined by architect and former RIBA President Ben Derbyshire to explore the history, purpose and future of London's civic societies. They unpack where these organisations came from, what influence they actually have in the planning system, and why there is so much misunderstanding about their role. The conversation examines the balance between protecting local character and enabling the high-quality development London needs, challenges the perception that civic societies are simply "NIMBY" organisations, and discusses how they can become more representative of the communities they serve. The episode also explores the wider barriers to delivering housing—from planning and finance to public engagement—and considers how civic societies can become constructive partners in creating a better London. Whether you're a resident, planner, architect, councillor or simply someone who cares about the future of the capital, this episode offers a thoughtful look at one of London's most important, but often overlooked, parts of civic life. Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction to civic societies and their role in London 01:12 - What is a civic society? Origins and early focus 02:40 - Historical context of civic activism and key figures like Octavia Hill 04:36 - Civic societies today: statutory powers and limitations 05:35 - The importance of civic influence versus statutory power 06:42 - Examples of civic influence and campaigns in London 07:56 - Challenges posed by statutory consultees and "NIMBY" labels 08:39 - Planning reform, streamlining, and civic engagement 09:56 - Campaigns: opposition in civic societies and their validity 11:18 - The positive role of civic societies in supporting public good and high-quality housing 12:17 - The importance of constructive civic participation and diversity 13:03 - Engaging new generations and diverse voices in planning 14:22 - The impact of demographic shifts on civic involvement and planning interest 15:52 - The undervalued contribution of civic societies in local planning debates 17:12 - The potential for civic societies to influence detailed urban policies 18:07 - Overcoming old stereotypes and encouraging younger, diverse memberships 19:23 - The need to improve genuine engagement over superficial consultation processes 20:03 - Young people's creativity and energy in urban activism 21:26 - The challenge of meaningful participation and constructive debate 22:50 - The disconnect between the housing crisis and public perception 23:43 - Alternative models for funding social housing, including bonds and public investment 25:20 - Recognizing the historical role of Section 106 in urban development 26:23 - The positive perception of young people's engagement when opportunities are available 27:19 - Defining "good growth" and the importance of housing as infrastructure 28:44 - The balance between local character and innovative urban design 29:22 - Examples of modern, context-sensitive architecture and design standards 31:23 - The valuable input civic societies provide in planning and development debates 32:00 - Encouraging wider public involvement in civic and planning activities 33:36 - The joy of activism and community engagement in urban renewal projects 34:04 - Closing thoughts: how to better involve local communities in shaping London Resources & Links: London SocietyLondon.co.ukOctavia Hill - BiographyLondon Forum of Amenities and Civic SocietiesVictorian SocietySociety for the Preservation of Ancient Buildings (SPAB)20th Century SocietySadiq Khan's Good Growth PolicySection 106 AgreementsConnect with Ben Derbyshire: LinkedInTwitter Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Talk About London | Civic Societies are in the news – what power do they have?

  6. Jun 13

    Talk About London | After the Elections - How London Gets Back to Business

    London's local elections have reshaped the political map of the capital, bringing in new councillors, new administrations and new priorities. But what happens after the votes are counted? In this episode of Talk About London, Dave Hill, OnLondon and Leanne Tritton, The London Society are joined by Karen Alcock, one of London's most experienced public affairs professionals, to explore the practical realities of governing the city after a major election. From planning committees and housing delivery to political leadership, coalition-building and the challenge of bringing new councillors up to speed, Karen explains how local government actually works when the headlines have faded. The conversation looks at why decision-making can slow after elections, what this means for housing and development, how City Hall is responding to growing pressures on the planning system, and what residents, businesses and developers should expect over the coming months. Whether you're interested in politics, planning, housing or simply how London functions, this episode offers a clear and accessible guide to the challenges and opportunities facing the capital as its new leaders get down to work. 1:12 - Discussion on the scale of change across boroughs1:32 - Karen's insights on minority control and coalitions2:14 - Challenges faced by new councillors3:12 - Importance of officers in council operations4:35 - Timeframe for councils to settle and make decisions5:18 - Financial and political decision-making processes6:19 - Expected delays in council operations7:17 - Discussion on estate renewal and local plans9:00 - Impact of political changes on council operations10:05 - Loss of political muscle memory11:21 - Collaboration between new and old councillors12:26 - Day-to-day life of new councillors15:11 - Discussion on housing and development challenges19:14 - Mayoral interventions in planning decisions23:15 - Green Party's approach to development28:10 - Concerns about leadership and management techniques29:39 - Future challenges like AI and data centers31:24 - Mayoral interventions and their impact35:06 - Emergency measures and planning policy changes37:01 - Closing remarks and optimism for new councillors Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Talk About London | After the Elections - How London Gets Back to Business

  7. Apr 30

    Talk About London | Peter Murray OBE: The Man Who Would Be Mayor of London

    The Mayor of London is one of the most important roles in the country - shaping how the city grows, lives and works. But is there another way to run London? In this episode of Talk About London, Peter Murray joins Leanne Tritton, The London Society and Dave Hill, OnLondon to argue that London’s future hinges on something often overlooked: the built environment. With a housing crisis deepening and 600,000 people working across the sector, Peter sets out a more pragmatic, less political approach - one that brings together developers, communities and City Hall to unlock growth. From street votes and estate ballots to reducing development risk and learning from places like King’s Cross, he makes the case for a more collaborative, confident London. If we want to build the homes and infrastructure the city needs, it starts with how we think about — and talk about — the places we shape every day. Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction to Peter Murray's candidacy and his background in London's development 02:44 - Addressing London's housing shortage and affordability crisis 03:41 - Knowledge gaps among candidates regarding London's built environment 06:07 - The significance of the built environment sector in London's economy 07:28 - The potential for independent candidates to succeed in London politics 09:44 - Why politicians struggle to understand London's development challenges 10:10 - The legacy of Ken Livingstone and pragmatism in urban planning 13:28 - The importance of supporting small and local builders 15:08 - The role of community involvement and local engagement 16:33 - The importance of better communication and public trust in development 17:16 - How social media can support development advocacy 20:11 - The influence of political fragmentation and the potential for independent mayoral leadership 23:37 - The possibility of collaboration rather than confrontation with local authorities 24:32 - Reducing conflicts in development processes through dialogue 28:00 - The potential of consensus-building and cross-party collaboration 32:41 - Challenges of densifying suburban London and innovative solutions 33:11 - The role of street-level agreements in development approval 35:23 - How reducing risk for developers can boost London’s housing supply 36:52 - Transforming planning departments into enablers of development 37:19 - The importance of building a sense of London citizenship and unity 38:12 - Advocating for community-building campaigns using London’s assets 39:41 - The importance of promoting London’s identity through symbols like flags and initiatives 40:24 - Fostering a shared London identity to overcome divisions 41:20 - Combating hate and promoting inclusivity in London 42:46 - The role of civic society in shaping the city’s future Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Talk About London | Peter Murray OBE: The Man Who Would Be Mayor of London

  8. Apr 16

    Talk About London | London’s Looming Local Government Earthquake

    In this episode of Talk About London, the focus is on the upcoming council elections in London. Leanne Tritton, The London Society and Dave Hill, OnLondon are joined by Professor Tony Travers CBE, Director of LSE London at the London School of Economics, and Dr Nick Bowes FRGS, Managing Director, Insight and Public Affairs at LCA, to unpack what’s at stake. Nick has served as a local councillor. The discussion highlights the scale of the elections, with 1,817 representatives set to be elected across 32 borough councils, and explores how local contests often act as a barometer for national political sentiment—raising the prospect of significant shifts in London’s political landscape. Key themes include the fragmentation of traditional party loyalties, the rise of independent candidates, and the complexities of governing a city with increasingly diverse political dynamics. The conversation also examines the implications of councils falling into no overall control, the evolving role of local government, and the importance of experience in elected office. The episode concludes with a reflection on the value of local politicians—and the enduring paradox between public trust in politics and how people ultimately vote. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Talk About London | London’s Looming Local Government Earthquake
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About

The London Society is for all those who love London. Our aim is to translate and bring clarity to the complex issues that impact on our ‘built environment’ and ultimately the people who live and work in London. Founded in 1912 by a group of influential Londoners concerned about the lack of vision for the future of the capital, for more than 100 years it has brought people together to debate key issues about the future of London. London needs an independent forum that can act independently to support people in discovering and discussing important matters that face the city. The London Society has been and remains that place. Be part of the revival and listen to the debate. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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