The London Society Podcast

Oxford Street is recognised around the world and is often described as the UK's high street. More than just one of London's most famous streets, it is a global destination whose success shapes perceptions of the capital and the country as a whole.In this episode of Talk About London, Dave Hill, OnLondon and Leanne Tritton, The London Society are joined by Nabeel Khan, Chief Executive of the Oxford Street Development Corporation, to explore the bold vision for its future. They discuss why the Mayoral Development Corporation was created, the powers it has to accelerate delivery, how consensus is being built between businesses, local communities and government, and why accessibility, public realm improvements and long-term planning will be critical to creating an Oxford Street that is fit for the next generation.Introduction to the Oxford Street Transformation Project – 00:00What is a Mayoral Development Corporation? – 01:32Why Oxford Street was chosen for transformation – 03:00The powers and responsibilities of the MDC – 04:08Geography and scope of the Oxford Street area – 05:34Legal and statutory powers of the MDC – 06:19Collaboration with Transport for London – 07:04Acting at pace: Early wins and timelines – 10:19Expected changes by October 2024 – 12:55Design and safety considerations, including hostile vehicle mitigation – 16:21Changing the role of Oxford Street: From retail to experience-led destination – 19:56Design review, accessibility and creating a street for everyone – 22:57Planning authority and governance – 28:26Developing the local plan and long-term vision – 31:15Section 106 contributions and community benefits – 34:57Building consensus among stakeholders – 39:43The importance of public toilets and clear communication – 44:30Using the public estate for messaging and engagement – 45:34Conclusion and future outlook – 48:10

The latest episode in the London Explained series takes a look at the River Thames and asks if London is making the most of the waterway that gave it life - particularly the part of its north bank, where it flows past the Houses of Parliament and the Victoria Embankment. Could that section of the riverfront - and further east to Blackfriars and beyond - be made more attractive to Londoners and visitors alike, both in its own right and through its proximity to the nearby pleasures of the Strand? Although it's an annual gathering point for celebrations of the New Year fireworks and the Marathon, might it be improved such that more people are drawn to it all year round? And what about its potential as an environmental asset, including for generating sustainable heat? Combining interviews, archive material and the sounds of the Embankment and the river itself, The London Society trustee and writer Dave Hill tells the story of the importance of the Thames to London's past, its present and its unfolding future. The podcast is produced by Andrew McGibbon of Curtains For Radio for The London Society. It was financially supported by the London Heritage Quarter business improvement district, with The London Society retaining full editorial control.

What role do civic societies really play in shaping London? Are they powerful defenders of local communities, or are they unfairly blamed for blocking the homes and infrastructure the capital desperately needs?In this episode of Talk About London, Leanne Tritton, The London Society and Dave Hill, OnLondon are joined by architect and former RIBA President Ben Derbyshire to explore the history, purpose and future of London's civic societies. They unpack where these organisations came from, what influence they actually have in the planning system, and why there is so much misunderstanding about their role.The conversation examines the balance between protecting local character and enabling the high-quality development London needs, challenges the perception that civic societies are simply "NIMBY" organisations, and discusses how they can become more representative of the communities they serve. The episode also explores the wider barriers to delivering housing—from planning and finance to public engagement—and considers how civic societies can become constructive partners in creating a better London.Whether you're a resident, planner, architect, councillor or simply someone who cares about the future of the capital, this episode offers a thoughtful look at one of London's most important, but often overlooked, parts of civic life.Timestamps:00:00 - Introduction to civic societies and their role in London01:12 - What is a civic society? Origins and early focus02:40 - Historical context of civic activism and key figures like Octavia Hill04:36 - Civic societies today: statutory powers and limitations05:35 - The importance of civic influence versus statutory power06:42 - Examples of civic influence and campaigns in London07:56 - Challenges posed by statutory consultees and "NIMBY" labels08:39 - Planning reform, streamlining, and civic engagement09:56 - Campaigns: opposition in civic societies and their validity11:18 - The positive role of civic societies in supporting public good and high-quality housing12:17 - The importance of constructive civic participation and diversity13:03 - Engaging new generations and diverse voices in planning14:22 - The impact of demographic shifts on civic involvement and planning interest15:52 - The undervalued contribution of civic societies in local planning debates17:12 - The potential for civic societies to influence detailed urban policies18:07 - Overcoming old stereotypes and encouraging younger, diverse memberships19:23 - The need to improve genuine engagement over superficial consultation processes20:03 - Young people's creativity and energy in urban activism21:26 - The challenge of meaningful participation and constructive debate22:50 - The disconnect between the housing crisis and public perception23:43 - Alternative models for funding social housing, including bonds and public investment25:20 - Recognizing the historical role of Section 106 in urban development26:23 - The positive perception of young people's engagement when opportunities are available27:19 - Defining "good growth" and the importance of housing as infrastructure28:44 - The balance between local character and innovative urban design29:22 - Examples of modern, context-sensitive architecture and design standards31:23 - The valuable input civic societies provide in planning and development debates32:00 - Encouraging wider public involvement in civic and planning activities33:36 - The joy of activism and community engagement in urban renewal projects34:04 - Closing thoughts: how to better involve local communities in shaping LondonResources & Links:London SocietyLondon.co.ukOctavia Hill - BiographyLondon Forum of Amenities and Civic SocietiesVictorian SocietySociety for the Preservation of Ancient Buildings (SPAB)20th Century SocietySadiq Khan's Good Growth PolicySection 106 AgreementsConnect with Ben Derbyshire:LinkedInTwitter

London's local elections have reshaped the political map of the capital, bringing in new councillors, new administrations and new priorities. But what happens after the votes are counted?In this episode of Talk About London, Dave Hill, OnLondon and Leanne Tritton, The London Society are joined by Karen Alcock, one of London's most experienced public affairs professionals, to explore the practical realities of governing the city after a major election.From planning committees and housing delivery to political leadership, coalition-building and the challenge of bringing new councillors up to speed, Karen explains how local government actually works when the headlines have faded.The conversation looks at why decision-making can slow after elections, what this means for housing and development, how City Hall is responding to growing pressures on the planning system, and what residents, businesses and developers should expect over the coming months.Whether you're interested in politics, planning, housing or simply how London functions, this episode offers a clear and accessible guide to the challenges and opportunities facing the capital as its new leaders get down to work.1:12 - Discussion on the scale of change across boroughs1:32 - Karen's insights on minority control and coalitions2:14 - Challenges faced by new councillors3:12 - Importance of officers in council operations4:35 - Timeframe for councils to settle and make decisions5:18 - Financial and political decision-making processes6:19 - Expected delays in council operations7:17 - Discussion on estate renewal and local plans9:00 - Impact of political changes on council operations10:05 - Loss of political muscle memory11:21 - Collaboration between new and old councillors12:26 - Day-to-day life of new councillors15:11 - Discussion on housing and development challenges19:14 - Mayoral interventions in planning decisions23:15 - Green Party's approach to development28:10 - Concerns about leadership and management techniques29:39 - Future challenges like AI and data centers31:24 - Mayoral interventions and their impact35:06 - Emergency measures and planning policy changes37:01 - Closing remarks and optimism for new councillors

The Mayor of London is one of the most important roles in the country - shaping how the city grows, lives and works. But is there another way to run London?In this episode of Talk About London, Peter Murray joins Leanne Tritton, The London Society and Dave Hill, OnLondon to argue that London’s future hinges on something often overlooked: the built environment.With a housing crisis deepening and 600,000 people working across the sector, Peter sets out a more pragmatic, less political approach - one that brings together developers, communities and City Hall to unlock growth. From street votes and estate ballots to reducing development risk and learning from places like King’s Cross, he makes the case for a more collaborative, confident London.If we want to build the homes and infrastructure the city needs, it starts with how we think about — and talk about — the places we shape every day.Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction to Peter Murray's candidacy and his background in London's development 02:44 - Addressing London's housing shortage and affordability crisis 03:41 - Knowledge gaps among candidates regarding London's built environment 06:07 - The significance of the built environment sector in London's economy 07:28 - The potential for independent candidates to succeed in London politics 09:44 - Why politicians struggle to understand London's development challenges 10:10 - The legacy of Ken Livingstone and pragmatism in urban planning 13:28 - The importance of supporting small and local builders 15:08 - The role of community involvement and local engagement 16:33 - The importance of better communication and public trust in development 17:16 - How social media can support development advocacy 20:11 - The influence of political fragmentation and the potential for independent mayoral leadership 23:37 - The possibility of collaboration rather than confrontation with local authorities 24:32 - Reducing conflicts in development processes through dialogue 28:00 - The potential of consensus-building and cross-party collaboration 32:41 - Challenges of densifying suburban London and innovative solutions 33:11 - The role of street-level agreements in development approval 35:23 - How reducing risk for developers can boost London’s housing supply 36:52 - Transforming planning departments into enablers of development 37:19 - The importance of building a sense of London citizenship and unity 38:12 - Advocating for community-building campaigns using London’s assets 39:41 - The importance of promoting London’s identity through symbols like flags and initiatives 40:24 - Fostering a shared London identity to overcome divisions 41:20 - Combating hate and promoting inclusivity in London 42:46 - The role of civic society in shaping the city’s future

Dave Hill from OnLondon and Leanne Tritton, The London Society talk to Tim Reeve, COO of the V&A, about how culture can shape the future of London—and why it matters for the city’s next generation of places.Drawing on the V&A’s work at East Bank in the Olympic Park, Tim shares how projects like the V&A East Museum and Storehouse are rethinking what a museum can be: open, accessible and embedded in the life of local communities. From behind-the-scenes access to working collections to bold public art, these initiatives are designed to engage new audiences and make culture feel relevant.We explore how this approach is attracting a younger, more diverse audience, helping to rebuild trust in national institutions and demonstrating the role culture can play in social change. The conversation also looks ahead, asking whatLondon's New Towns Enfield and Thamesmead can learn as they develop their own identities.More broadly, Tim reflects on London’s evolving cultural landscape, where activity is no longer concentrated in the centre but spread across the city—creating a more inclusive and dynamic model for the future.If you’re interested in how culture can help shape better places, this episode offers a compelling and practical perspective.00:00 - Introduction to the V&A East Museum and its mission01:00 - The family of V&A museums and upcoming East Bank opening01:46 - The theme of making and East London heritage02:45 - Location significance and historical context of East Bank03:04 - Opening date and visitor experience overview03:32 - Sculpture "A Place Beyond" and its symbolism04:17 - Collaboration with artist Thomas J. Price and community focus05:13 - Representation of East London in art and impact of public artworks06:22 - Inside the new building designed by Dublin-based O'Donnell and Toomey07:25 - Culinary and architectural features of the V&A East Museum07:55 - The "We Make" galleries: showcasing collections and new commissions09:11 - Temporary exhibitions and public programs including Terrace views09:34 - The success of the Storehouse reserve collection and visitor engagement10:47 - The innovative approach to behind-the-scenes accessibility12:12 - Visitor numbers and the cultural significance of expanding access13:12 - Connecting East London with the national collections and community outreach14:42 - Demographic insights: young, ethnically diverse visitors15:46 - The broader Olympic Park legacy and its role in urban regeneration21:21 - The origin and development of the East Bank cultural quarter post-Olympics23:39 - Political commitment and the evolution of the cultural vision for London30:41 - Dispersal of cultural institutions across different London districts31:30 - Success stories like the Childhood Museum and flagship exhibitions33:39 - The long-term strategy behind blockbuster exhibitions and innovation34:49 - Summary and closing thoughts on London's cultural futureResources & Links:Victoria and Albert Museum - Official SiteThomas J. Price - Artist ProfileStorehouse at the V&AV&A East Museum - Official AnnouncementDavid Bowie Archive - Official Site

London’s Southbank Centre isn’t just an iconic cultural landmark — it’s a living example of resilience, innovation, and community spirit. In this episode, Elaine Bedell, CEO of the Southbank Centre, reveals how this historic space is navigating today's funding crisis, shifting public priorities, and the urgent need for capital repairs. From pandemic survival strategies to celebrating 75 years of cultural impact, Elaine shares the invisible architecture behind one of the world’s most beloved arts hubs.Discover how the Southbank Centre’s unique leasehold, owned by the government but operated by the community, shapes its future. Elaine uncovers ambitious plans to blend big cultural moments like Danny Boyle’s upcoming anniversary event with grassroots engagement, including skateboarding histories and local poetry tours. She explains why London’s arts infrastructure is vital not only for tourism and identity but as an emotional anchor—especially in a time when political narratives overlook its importance.You’ll learn about the critical need for capital investment in heritage buildings that serve millions annually—buildings that have stood since 1951 but are now facing leaks, structural decay, and outdated infrastructure. Elaine highlights how a thriving capital fuels regional arts, promotes social cohesion, and offers soft skills that transform individuals and communities alike.Perfect for arts administrators, city planners, cultural advocates, and anyone curious about how cultural spaces sustain and reinvent themselves in challenging times, this episode offers a blueprint for preserving public treasures that make cities human, vibrant, and resilient.Join us for a compelling look at how London’s cultural heartbeat continues to beat strong — through innovation, collaboration, and unwavering community spirit.Timestamps:00:00 - Introduction to Southbank Centre's legacy and significance02:15 - Elaine Bedell's journey to CEO and initial impressions05:00 - Funding challenges and the impact of government cuts08:50 - Pandemic response and organizational resilience13:00 - The cultural role of the Royal Festival Hall and public spaces17:00 - Need for capital refurbishment and infrastructure concerns21:20 - Collaboration with skateboarders and community relations24:30 - Footfall, tourism, and the Centre’s national and international reach28:45 - Celebrating the 75th anniversary with Danny Boyle and upcoming events32:00 - Interconnection between London and regional arts initiatives33:45 - The debate on regional funding and London’s cultural importance35:30 - Reflections on London’s Olympic legacy and community pride36:30 - Personal reflections from Elaine about her role and challenges37:00 - Closing thoughts and upcoming celebrationsResources & Links:Southbank Centre Official WebsiteDanny Boyle’s Creative WorkRoyal Festival Hall - Grade I Listed BuildingNational Poetry LibraryLondon SocietyConnect with Elaine Bedell:LinkedInTwitter

In this episode of Talk About London, hosts Leanne Tritton, The London Society and Dave Hill, OnLondon discuss the ongoing housing crisis in London with guest Rowan Moore, renown journalist, architecture critic and author. They explore the historical context of the crisis, the role of government in providing affordable housing, and the need for innovative solutions. The conversation emphasizes the importance of viewing housing as a social good and the necessity of rethinking current policies, including the right to buy. The episode also touches on the challenges of micro living and the potential for repurposing existing buildings to address housing shortages.TakeawaysLondon's housing crisis is deeply rooted in historical policies.The current market is failing to provide affordable housing solutions.Public intervention is necessary to address the housing emergency.Housing should be viewed as a social good, not just a commodity.Innovative strategies are needed to utilize existing housing effectively.The right to buy policy may need to be suspended to address housing needs.New towns and greenbelt developments are long-term solutions, not quick fixes.Micro living is not a sustainable solution for housing shortages.Tax incentives could help shift wealth towards affordable housing initiatives.Community engagement is crucial in reshaping housing policies.titlesReshaping London's Housing LandscapeThe Crisis of Affordability in LondonSound Bites"We need to see housing as a social good.""New towns have never happened quickly.""Micro flats are very suspect."Chapters00:00Introduction to London's Housing Crisis01:17Understanding the Roots of the Housing Emergency06:56Exploring Solutions: Public Housing Models09:57The Role of Taxation and Financial Incentives16:31New Towns and Greenbelt Development20:01Housing as Social Infrastructure25:37Reassessing Right to Buy and Private Development29:19Funding Housing Solutions32:36Repurposing Existing Buildings for Housing39:18The Debate on Micro LivingkeywordsLondon housing crisis, affordable housing, public intervention, housing solutions, property market, social infrastructure, housing policies, government role, housing investment, micro living