We were delighted to attend the Kent Design Conference this week, held at Sibson Building at University of Kent.
The Conference, hosted by Design South East, showcased a rich tapestry of insights and discussions aimed at shaping the future of communities, landscapes, and development in the region.
One notable panel discussion delved into the imperative of creating sustainable new communities. With perspectives from key figures like Joanne Cave from David Lock Associates, Julia Wallace from Otterpool Park, Mark Pullin from Ebbsfleet Development Corporation, and Nick Pollock from Duchy of Cornwall, the discourse likely explored the delicate balance between growth and environmental stewardship. Themes of integrated planning, green infrastructure, and community engagement likely emerged as crucial elements in envisioning resilient and vibrant future communities.
Another engaging panel focused on the regeneration of town centres, a pressing issue in contemporary urban planning. Ben Coleman from PJA, Simon Thomas from Canterbury City Council, and Mat Rain from Folkestone & Hythe District Council likely discussed innovative strategies to breathe new life into these vital urban hubs. Ben’s emphasis on the interplay between transportation and placemaking, coupled with Matt’s presentation of Folkestone’s immersive VR consultation experience, likely underscored the importance of community involvement and forward-thinking design in revitalizing town centres.
The session on the future of rural communities and landscapes likely offered valuable insights into the unique challenges facing these areas. Rebecca Lamb of Sevenoaks District Council likely shared first-hand experiences and solutions for navigating development pressures while preserving rural character. Elizabeth Milne from Kent County Council likely highlighted the crucial role of nature in enhancing the quality of life and resilience of rural areas, emphasizing the importance of integrating green spaces into development plans.
The afternoon workshops, covering topics such as design codes, biodiversity gain, healthy placemaking, and decarbonizing new development, likely provided attendees with practical tools and strategies to address pressing challenges in sustainable development. By fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange among stakeholders, the conference likely served as a catalyst for driving positive change and shaping a more inclusive, resilient, and sustainable built environment in Kent and beyond.
We thoroughly enjoyed attending the conference, and look forward to many more engaging discussions with our Kent peers.
