99% Invisible The 15 Minute City
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Dec 3, 2024 
Fergus O'Sullivan, a Bloomberg CityLab reporter focused on urban planning, discusses the intriguing rise of the 15-Minute City concept. He unpacks how a seemingly simple idea to enhance urban living sparked fierce protests and conspiracy theories, particularly in places like Oxford. The conversation covers the historical context and grassroots moves toward more sustainable living, while addressing public misconceptions that fueled opposition. O'Sullivan also highlights how the COVID-19 pandemic reshaped urban planning in cities like Paris and the ongoing challenges for this innovative approach.
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Urban Planning Shift
- Modernist urban planning, influenced by Le Corbusier's "Radiant Cities," separated cities into functional zones.
- This zoning, combined with the rise of cars, led to increased commutes and decreased walkability.
Paris and the 15-Minute City
- Paris, under Mayor Anne Hidalgo, adopted the 15-Minute City concept as a central planning principle.
- This led to visible changes like increased bike lanes, pedestrianized areas, and green spaces.
Conspiracy Theories
- The 15-Minute City concept became a target of far-right conspiracy theories, linking it to lockdowns and the "Great Reset."
- These theories falsely claimed that the concept would restrict movement and freedoms.