University of the Built Environment
A monthly exploration into the world of sustainability in the built environment with commentary and input from University of the Built Environment’s Vice Chancellor and academics.
By Linda Serck Ask most people who shapes a new housing development and they will probably point to planners, architects or developers. Yet behind every project that makes it from…
By Linda Serck Speaking at the University of the Built Environment’s summer 2026 graduation, Dr Wei Yang OBE urged graduates to carry their curiosity into the next stage of their…
Hurst Street, Birmingham By Linda Serck Today, places such as Soho, Canal Street and Kemptown are celebrated cultural LGBTQ+ landmarks. Yet their origins lie in a hidden geography of social exclusion, secrecy and anonymity. What…
By Professor Samer Bagaeen Head of the School of Town Planning The ‘Inside Housing: Build More Homes’ summit in London offered a timely opportunity to reflect on the current state…
By Linda Serck The government’s proposal to create seven new towns has reignited debate about how Britain builds communities at scale. Drawing on lessons from Bracknell’s post-war evolution, the University…
By Linda Serck The UK Government announced on 25 November it will back Heathrow Airport’s third runway scheme. It forms the basis of the airport’s £49 billion expansion plans that…
By Linda Serck In July 2025, the UK Government published its new Resilience Action Plan which states that “crises and emergencies do not respect borders”. It also declares that resilience…
By Linda Serck Digital technology is now one of the core tools shaping how cities understand risk, prioritise investment and design for long-term resilience. Professor Samer Bagaeen, Head of Town…
Embracing the circular economy could help the built environment address its role in the climate crisis and bring the sector on board with a net zero future. Here's how. The…
Here's how a Swedish city has become a shining example of a sustainable city and the future of the built environment. Gothenburg is the second largest city in Sweden. Home…
Where does 'Not in My Backyard' opposition to new development come from, and what are the potential impacts of this philosophy? In the United Kingdom, urban planners have long had…
An old industrial harbour in Copenhagen has become the centre of the city's plans for a sustainable future. Here's how it plans to offer its residents access to all their…
