RIBA launches 2019 Future Place programme

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Firms have until 27 June to register interest in the scheme

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The RIBA has launched an open call for architects to apply to work alongside the local authorities that have already been selected to participate in the 2019 Future Place programme.

The Future Place programme, which the RIBA is running alongside the Chartered Institute of Housing, Homes England, the Local Government Association and the Royal Town Planning Institute, is now looking for architects or practices to help five areas develop their priorities.

The programme aims to recognise and support high-quality placemaking in England.

The five Future Places – Bradford, Gateshead, Great Yarmouth, Greater Exeter and North Northamptonshire – were selected based on the local authorities’ vision to enhance people’s lives, improve community wellbeing and create sustainable environments.

Ben Derbyshire, RIBA president, said: “This is an opportunity for talented architects to support their local authority planning teams at a strategic level, helping them to explore a really interesting mix of design challenges.

“Each of the five places were selected because of their vision and determination to deliver meaningful change, and winners of this first phase can demonstrate the added value an architect can bring to placemaking.”

RIBA is inviting chartered architects and practices to submit expressions of interest by 27 June.

The five place-making commissions are:

Bradford – diverse community-led placemaking
The City of Bradford district council has a strong vision to transform the city centre by creating new homes and economic opportunities.
Entrants are invited to identify innovative ways to engage with the young, diverse communities of the future.

Gateshead – health and wellbeing-led placemaking
Gateshead council is committed to creating a lively and connected town centre which promotes a better quality of life.
Entrants are invited to identify opportunities to improve health, wellbeing, social interaction for future residents of the town.

Great Yarmouth – heritage and innovation-led placemaking and growth
Great Yarmouth borough council is currently driving forward an ambitious town centre masterplan and major regeneration projects along the seafront to enhance the experience for tourists and the local community.
Entrants are invited to carry out an analysis of the seafront and propose improvements to the public realm.

Greater Exeter – sustainable growth and high-density-living-led placemaking
By 2040 Greater Exeter wants to be recognised as a global leader in sustainable living and one of the most active, healthy and accessible cities in England. Entrants are invited to develop design principles for higher-density car-free neighbourhoods.

North Northamptonshire – landscape and green infrastructure-led placemaking
The five partner local authorities that make up North Northamptonshire plan to advance an ambitious growth agenda to build 40,000 homes over 20 years and create a new garden village.
Entrants are invited to develop principles for the design and management of a key radial route connecting new garden communities with the town centre.