Institutional silos limit a broader approach towards system thinking

We discussed how a more dedicated move towards system thinking principles could better optimise spaces for people and place, beyond development borders or tick-box procurement. 

There was unanimous agreement that the breakdown in communication between institutional systems can create dysfunctional solutions, and that development sites need to be considered within the context of their wider neighbourhoods to better represent and service the needs of the people who inhabit them. 

Key takeaways included: 

-Clarity of thinking + clarity of vision: know what you're trying to achieve from the outset, have confidence in the plan of action, and then trust in the strengths of the project's players to make it happen without losing sight of the purpose. 

-We can't underplay the importance of patient capital: owning fewer but larger assets for longer periods with optionality. Long-term custodianship means you can think differently because you're able to make a more considered approach to the overall place and still pivot if needed. But you can only do that successfully with a long-term view. 

-Covid caused disruption in so many ways. But one thing it did for the City of London, in particular, was reiterate the importance of mixed-use neighbourhoods and reacting to changing patterns of behaviour. The likelihood of active travel has increased - beneficial for both people and planet, so how do we capitalise? 

Last week, the government laid out a working paper exploring the reformation of planning approaches to sites based on size, boundaries and complexity. We say this is an excellent opportunity to rethink the way in which we approach development to ensure that the unique needs of large-scale developments are met creatively and with vision. 

Thank you to all our attendees: Lloyd Preston-Allen, Simon Bayliss, Anna Rose, Suzanne Benson, Peter O'Hare, Anthony Peter, Kerstin Kane, Prof. (Dr.) Samer Bagaeen FICE FRICS MRTPI FRGS FRSA