Embracing digital innovation in urban planning and design: UKREiiF panel session recap

From left to right: Camilla Siggaard Andersen, Veronica Barbaro, Chris Outtersides, Adam Sheppard, Gala Camacho, Duncan Welberry, Jenny Hartley

Here is a recap on our session at the UKREiiF Campus in Leeds City Centre, at the Barton Suite site, on 21 May 2024 at 13:00.

The panel featured professionals from various sectors:

• Adam Sheppard, Assistant Professor of Urban Planning, University of Birmingham;

• Camilla Siggaard Andersen, Practice Leader - Landscape and Urbanism, Hassell; 

• Duncan Welberry, Head of IT Business Partnering, Associated British Ports; 

• Gala Camacho, Diagonal Data Science Lead; 

• Jenny Hartley, Director, Invest in Newcastle; 

• Chris Outtersides, Head of Planning Strategy, Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (DLUHC).

The session was chaired and introduced by Veronica Barbaro, our Principal Planner. She provided an overview of our work as a geospatial data science consultancy focused on creating tools that support transparent and equitable decision-making in the built environment.

Veronica’s introduction included a demo of Skyline, our new geospatial data visualisation platform that  enables scenario testing to inform planning strategies and investment decisions.

The panel discussion started with a question to Camilla Siggaard Andersen about integrating digital technology into the design and planning processes. Camilla emphasised that while digital tools have great potential, their effectiveness depends on the quality of data and its interpretation. She pointed out that successful urban planning requires both high-level data analysis and ground-level collaboration with the community. 

Adam Sheppard added an academic perspective, stressing the importance of building trust between society and the planning profession. He highlighted the need for long-term approaches that show the positive impact of digital tools on urban development. Adam also mentioned the importance of transparency and community involvement in planning processes to rebuild trust and encourage meaningful engagement.

Chris Outtersides discussed his experience of DLUHC Proptech funded projects in his previous role working within local authority and emphasised the importance of making data accessible and understandable to the public. He shared insights on how synthesising data into non-technical language can significantly improve public engagement and trust.

Jenny Hartley shared how Newcastle uses data to attract investment and improve city planning. She highlighted the role of the Urban Observatory, which provides real-time, open-source urban data. This data has been instrumental in various initiatives, including the creation of an app during COVID-19 to help residents navigate the city safely.

Gala Camacho stressed the importance of involving the public in the data-driven decision-making process. She advocated for transparency in how data is used and the necessity of allowing community input to ensure that planning decisions reflect the needs and desires of the people.

Duncan Welberry shared his perspective from the private sector, emphasising the need for collaboration between public and private entities. He discussed the potential of open data to drive innovation and improve urban planning outcomes, while also recognising the importance of balancing competitive interests with public good.

The panel concluded with a Q&A session, where attendees engaged with the panellists on various topics, including the challenges of implementing digital tools in cash-strapped local authorities and the importance of long-term strategies for sustainable urban development.

Key insights from the discussion:

1. Digital tools alone do not guarantee better urban environments; the quality and interpretation of data, as well as human decision-making, are crucial factors.

2. Engaging the public in the development and use of digital tools is essential. Data should be presented in an accessible, meaningful way that resonates with the target audience.

3. Continuous engagement and collaboration between the private sector, public sector, and local communities are vital for the successful implementation of digital solutions.

4. Planning education should foster a culture of innovation, experimentation, and knowledge-sharing to prepare future planners for the evolving digital landscape.

5. The public sector faces challenges in adopting digital tools due to resource constraints and the need to balance innovation with the delivery of statutory functions.

6. Building trust is key to the successful integration of digital technology in urban planning. This can be achieved through transparent processes, evidencing impact, and involving the public throughout the journey.

7. Who builds digital tools matters.

8. Digital tools should support strategies aiming to address pressing issues such as health inequalities, decarbonisation, and improving the well-being of people and communities.

The panel emphasised that while digital tools can enhance the planning process, they should not be seen as a replacement for human expertise and decision-making. Instead, technology should be leveraged to support more efficient, collaborative, and inclusive approaches to urban planning and design.

If you missed the session, you can watch the recording here.

If you’d like to find out more about Skyline and join our early adopters community get in touch here.