11 December 2006
LSE London recently published a document entitled London bigger and better? which summarised a number of key arguments about the growth and development of the capital. If London's population grows at the rate projected by official demographers, there is likely to need to be significantly more housing and a major investment in transport infrastructure.
However, not all commentators believe such growth is inevitable, or that new employment will necessarily be where it is currently expected. Some - including the Mayor's London Plan - argue for sharply higher densities of development, while others believe London and its region has a tradition of more suburban settlement.
The environmental impact of development in urban areas in different from that in rural or semi-urban ones. Finally, much of the growth in London's population will, in net terms, be driven by international in-migration. The political management of change in the capital's population is another major issue.
This event built on the essays included in London bigger and better?, although those participating in the event brought their own experience and beliefs to the discussion.
Panel speakers included:
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Jenny Jones, London Assembly Member, Green Party
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Keith Moffitt, Leader, Camden
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Lord Victor Adebowale, House of Lords
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Anthony Mayer, Chief Executive, Greater London Authority
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Chair: Tony Travers, LSE London
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Programme (Word document)