UK Cities Intelligence: issue 1

UK Cities Intelligence Unit: Focus on Active Travel, Nature-Based Solutions, and Social Value

The inaugural edition of the UK Cities Intelligence Unit's collection of research and stories focuses on enhancing climate and social outcomes for communities worldwide. This issue highlights three core areas:

1. Active Travel

   • Definition: Walking, cycling, and wheeling within towns and cities, aiming to minimize carbon emissions, improve health, and foster resilient, livable spaces.
   • Key Statistics: 72% of personal journeys in England in 2021 were under 5 miles, with 31% made by walking and 2% by cycling.
   • Benefits:
     • Health: Reduces obesity, coronary heart disease, stroke, depression, diabetes, and various cancers.
     • Community: Increases social cohesion and mental health by promoting spontaneous socializing and play.
     • Inclusion: Ensures accessibility for all, including those using mobility aids.
     • Economy: Boosts local businesses and reduces congestion.
     • Environment: Contributes to decarbonization, reduces noise pollution, and enhances air quality.

2. Nature-Based Solutions

   • Purpose: Designing cities to integrate nature and people, creating resilient environments that perform optimally in changing climates.
   • Technologies Highlighted: 'Terrain', a digital tool that helps cities plan for large-scale blue and green solutions to manage urban flooding, improve water retention, and mitigate heat islands.

3. Social Value

   • Definition: Emphasizes non-monetary benefits in urban planning, guiding the delivery of outcomes that benefit people and places.
   • Inclusion Challenge: Ensuring that active travel is accessible to everyone, including those with disabilities or in underserved communities.

Challenges and Opportunities:

• Data Availability: Challenges in collecting and utilizing data for effective post-delivery monitoring and evaluation.
• Budget Constraints: Local authorities face budget limitations for capital and maintenance, impacting long-term cost savings.
• Inclusion: Need to address equity in active travel initiatives to ensure inclusivity.
• Technology and Innovation: Growth in electric mobility like e-bikes offers accessibility improvements but risks diverting attention from core goals.
• Capacity Building: Development of industry skills and knowledge sharing is crucial for successful infrastructure delivery.

This report underscores the importance of collaborative efforts and integrated thinking in addressing climate change, promoting sustainability, and enhancing community well-being. It invites readers to explore the perspectives from COP27 and consider the role of urban planners, designers, and policymakers in shaping a more sustainable future.