In the aftermath of the recession, Newcastle University has been studying how urban designers have coped and adapted, seeking to spark debate into what the future holds for the profession. Understandably most of us are probably trying to forget the economic recession: the job cuts, the reduced public sector spending, and total loss of market confidence. The same period also saw significant legislative changes, most notably the Localism Act and the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), while the Farrell Review placed the spotlight on the built environment. All of this provides what we believe is a natural pause and point for reflection on these events and their implications for the urban design profession and field. This is not to commiserate but to learn and imagine what the future could hold for urban designers, and how we can put our best foot forward: where do we fit in?
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