Academy of Urbanism ‘Here & Now’ article series December 2018June 2025 A series of publications written by Nicholas Falk for the Academy of Urbanism’s Here & Now journal since 2015.
Capital gains: a better land assembly model for London June 2018June 2025 This report examines how London can improve land assembly processes to boost housing delivery.
Final Oxford Central West Report March 2016June 2025 This report of a workshop held at the Said Business School and Nuffield College on 16/03/2016 sets out the main conclusions and proposals, along with supporting information, to include some cases. The event was organised by Oxford Civic Society (OCS) and the Academy of Urbanism (AoU) and brought together local stakeholders with outside experts, over fifty in all.
Swift Rail and Growing Cities January 2016June 2025 The UK could learn from Germany and its own experience in London’s Docklands when it comes to rail transport links, argue Dr Nicholas Falk and Reg Harman.
Affordable Housing for Oxford March 2015June 2025 This report outlines findings from the second in a new series of workshops on future growth in central Oxfordshire. It follows up some of the issues raised by Oxford Futures in bringing together a wide range of people across professional, sectoral and age divides. It was organised by Oxford Brookes University with URBED, and was sponsored by the Joseph Rowntree Foundation.
Trams for Oxford March 2015June 2025 Modern Light Rail Transit (LRT) could be the saviour of historic cities such as Oxford. This conclusion emerged from a seminar organised by URBED and the Sintropher project group at UCL on 12/03/2015. A series of papers were discussed by an audience representing a range of interests from Oxford City as well as experts from the tram world around the UK.
Oxford Futures Transport Options November 2014June 2025 This report outlines findings from the first in a new series of workshops on future growth in central Oxfordshire. The workshops are aimed at bringing together interested people in the universities, local authorities and the wider community. It was sponsored by URBED with Keble College, and followed on from URBED’s winning submission for the 2014 Wolfson Economics Prize, which tests out the idea of doubling Oxford in size.
Funding housing and local growth: how a British investment bank can help June 2014June 2025 Funding Housing and Local Growth advocates for a transformative approach to housing development in the UK. It proposes establishing a Municipal Investment Corporation (MIC) linked to a British Investment Bank (BIB) to mobilise private investment and enhance infrastructure. By prioritising upfront infrastructure, selecting optimal growth locations, and fostering local authority collaboration, the report aims to double house-building rates and create sustainable neighbourhoods. It critiques the current financial system’s shortcomings and highlights successful international models, urging a shift towards smarter growth that balances economic needs with environmental and social considerations for future generations.
Oxford Futures: achieving smarter growth in Central Oxfordshire January 2014June 2025 The Oxford Futures report advocates for smarter, coordinated growth in Central Oxfordshire to harness its economic and educational strengths while addressing pressing challenges.
Zone of influence June 2013June 2025 Infrastructure projects should not end at the station exit. Camilla Ween explains how Crossrail will set the standard for improving the environment around its stations, going well beyond the requirements of the Act authorising its construction
How can local government build sustainable urban neighbourhoods? February 2012June 2025 The UK needs many more and better homes. This study presents ideas drawn from research and case studies on how to develop sustainable new communities.
Pillars of the community: the transfer of local authority heritage assets January 2011June 2025 “Pillars of the Community”, drafted by URBED for government, serves as a comprehensive guide for the transfer of local authority heritage assets to community groups. It emphasises the importance of understanding the significance of these assets and the need for robust planning and management strategies. The publication outlines best practices for assessing heritage value, developing business plans, and ensuring long-term sustainability. It highlights the necessity of community engagement and the careful balancing of financial viability with cultural preservation. By fostering collaboration between local authorities and communities, the guide aims to enhance the stewardship of historic assets, ensuring they remain vital parts of local identity.
Investing in the green recovery June 2009July 2025 The 2009 Budget heralded the prospects for city regions and for introducing “innovative financing mechanisms to support locally driven investment in growth and regeneration”. This paper summarises arguments for enabling county councils and unitary authorities to raise finance to achieve new (and “greener”) housing and local economic development in the right places through infrastructure bonds and “quality deals”. It builds on the pamphlet Funding Sustainable Communities, which reviews the options, and on recent research projects into US and European experience with infrastructure funding and regeneration.
Spreading the benefits of town and city centre renewal July 2005June 2025 This report examines how town and city centre renewal can be effectively spread across regions, promoting balanced growth. It underscores the importance of coordinated efforts, strong local leadership, and strategic planning to ensure sustainable urban regeneration benefits all communities.
Strategies for Smaller Centres November 2004June 2025 This guide provides practical strategies for small town centres, tackling issues such as empty shops and connectivity. It highlights community engagement, vision development, and resource planning to create vibrant, sustainable centres. With case studies and actionable checklists, it supports local stakeholders in developing bespoke plans to revitalise and strengthen their town environments.
