Exploring Solutions to the UK’s Housing and Urban Challenges
Last Thursday, I attended the London Build Expo at Olympia, featuring panels of industry leaders where conversations ranged from tall buildings to AI and digital construction. My focus was on housing and urban development. While it was great to see the challenges we all know so well being talked about, I left questioning how proposed solutions will be brought to life.
Some of the stats shared were sobering: London needs 81,000 homes a year, but we’re only delivering around 30,000. And in one of the wealthiest cities in the world, 3 in 10 children live in poverty. Unsurprisingly, the planning system came under fire, with a clear call for reform and investment in planning departments and infrastructure.
Innovative approaches, including modular construction, was highlighted as a quicker, more efficient way to build, while tall buildings were seen as a smart solution for protecting green spaces. Done right, they could even create vertical communities with homes, gyms, and cafés all in one place.
Sustainability was another big focus, with retrofitting, biophilic design, and car-free developments championed for improving wellbeing and reducing environmental impact. And it was clear that engaging with communities, especially the vulnerable and youth is key, ensuring developments address real needs while delivering transparency in social value.
With the right collaboration and focus on sustainability and social value, we can create homes and communities that really make a difference.