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Talks and lectures

The Great Debate: how can our urban centres thrive?

Our Plymouth Great Debate on 20 February brings together built environment professionals and future professionals to hear, discuss and question our panel of experts, and to provide intelligent thinking for the agencies and authorities tasked with leading our city's sustainability and growth.

Our urban centres are under increasing pressure from challenges to the traditional retail model and uncertainty caused by political and climate change. New homes are required in increasing numbers. Better transport infrastructure is needed to reduce carbon emissions, congestion and reduce stress. Placemaking, more diverse urban living, and technology need to be embraced to support thriving cities of the future. Collaboration with communities is key to ensuring places for people.

Our Plymouth Great Debate on 20 February brings together built environment professionals and future professionals to hear, discuss and question our panel of experts, and to provide intelligent thinking for the agencies and authorities tasked with leading our city's sustainability and growth. 

Chaired by Katy Toms, Senior Engineer WSP, Exeter, and Chair of the Board Institution of Civil Engineers, South West. Panelists include:

  • Anthony Payne, Strategic Director for Place, Plymouth City Council
  • Yuli Cadney-Toh, Architect Director, BDP
  • Mark Gordon, Director of Comms and Partnerships, Power to Change
  • Simon Prescott, Partner, Barton Willmore 

Hosted by Plymouth City Council at The Council House. Partners are RIBA, RTPI, RICS, ICE and CIBSE.

Tickets are £8 for members of RIBA, RICS, ICE, CIBSE, RTPI and Plymouth University staff. Standard tickets cost £16.