Urban Forecast

In this episode of the Urban Forecast Podcast,  we delve into the dynamic landscape of the macro economy behind the UK housing market and its impact on the future of cities. In a post-pandemic world, the economy has seen a seismic shift, influenced by unprecedented government interventions and unique inflationary pressures. Join us as we explore what has led to the economic position we are in today, what the means for the housing market now and how those trends are going to change over the next 3-5 years.

Tenant demand is at an all-time high in the UK, and this is driving the rapid growth of the Built-to Rent Sector. On this episode, we sat down with Polly Simpson, Head of Multifamily Development at Savills London, who has been fully immersed in this emerging sector since its inception ten years ago. We discuss the underlying market forces that are driving the growth of the sector, what is required to deliver a successful BTR scheme, and how the sector is faring in these highly challenging times for the whole UK property market.

Join Jason Boyle, an architect with over 23 years of experience at Seller Limited and a seasoned professional in the nuclear industry, as he takes you on a journey through the world of architecture.Get ready to dive deep into the human side of the profession, as Jason fearlessly addresses the tough issues that architects grapple with every day – from burnout and undervaluation to the challenges of architectural education. With a passion for mentorship, Jason founded the Global Architect Alliance, offering online mentoring to aspiring architects worldwide. He's on a mission to reshape architectural education, advocating for apprenticeship-style learning and tackling the industry's most pressing challenges head-on. Tune in as he shares insights, stories, and solutions to create a healthier, happier architecture profession.And in a change to the usual format, Jason interviews the host Oliver!

In this episode of the Urban Forecast Podcast, we deep dive into the co-living sector with Paul Wellman and James Hanmer, both experts in this brand-new, but rapidly expanding sector. We explore how big the demand for the product is, the challenges that exist for those delivering and funding it, and the different types of products that are emerging to meet this demand.

Get ready for an exhilarating episode, where we go behind the scenes of UKREiiF, the UK’S fastest-growing and most disruptive property sector event.We sat down with Matt Christie, Director External Relations and Content at UKREiiF, to discuss the layers of strategies aimed at crafting a program of activities that drive the success of UKREiiF. We delve into how they’ve made UKREiiF more accessible, inviting broader participation and enabling attendees to voice their concerns directly to decision-makers...and how this is changing the landscape of property events through its success. Their strategy extends to engaging young and hard-to-reach individuals in the built environment, offering them a platform, stimulating future decision-making.

In the latest episode of Urban Forecast, Ashley Perry, Investment Director at Apache Capital, joins us. We delve into many topics, from insights gained at a ULI UK event to the broad spectrum of build-to-rent operators and their strategic development processes. We examine the transformation of regional cities and unused sites into thriving communities, discuss the rental market dynamics in light of tax reforms, and foresee the future of the build-to-rent sector, including growth trajectories and the transition to long-term ownership.

In the latest episode of Urban Forecast, we were joined by Jonathan Director of Inward Investment & Higher Education Academic Relationships at London Borough of Waltham Forest.In this episode, we cover Jonathan’s background working within a number of the former New Towns, and focus on the work Jonathan is currently engaged in; rapidly transforming the vibrant borough of Waltham Forest.In this conversation, we cover the conversion of iconic landmarks into lively community centres, the inspiring collaborations that have moulded the borough, and Waltham Forest's ambitious plans, which emphasises a net-zero carbon future.

In an emergency, unscheduled episode, we sat down with Peter George on the Urban Forecast Podcast to discuss the state of the industry, and what he recommends that RIBA do to attempt to reverse the decline.Peter is Strategic Director of Economy and Sustainability at London Borough of Ealing and also shares his vision for the many departments in the borough that report to him. In this episode, Peter also reflects on his experience leading the Meridian Water project whilst the Director of Development at LB Enfield. This is one of the best and most exciting episodes we have recorded, you don’t want to miss this! 

In this episode we speak to Kunle Barker; Property & Construction Expert, Writer, & Broadcaster. Kunle is the star of Channel 4’s Project Home with Nick Grimshaw, ITV’s ‘Save Money: My Beautiful Green Home and has a regular column in Architects Journal.Kunle has 20 years of experience in the Construction and Design industry, having delivered thousands of residential refurbishments, 120 Schools and 3 sports centres refits with his company Illustrious Homes.In 2018, he won the Property Expert of the Year award. Apart from his work with his company, Kunle has consulted with the central government working with RT. Hon. Mathew Hancock.His knowledge of different construction and building topics and his experience writing a regular column for the Architects Journal and for the Homes & Property Section of the Evening Standard make him the perfect guest for this brand-new episode.

In this episode we speak to Ghislaine Halpenny; Director of ESG and Corporate Affairs at Regal London.Ghislaine has over a decade’s experience at the British Property Federation leading their external affairs work and managing reputational challenges for the wider commercial real estate industry.In her current role, she oversees Regal London’s broad ESG strategy and all corporate communications including a lively digital team. She’s also the internal ‘People’s Champion’ with responsibility for ED&I and culture.Ghislaine’s experience in sustainability and the wider real estate industry make her the perfect guest to talk about the role sustainability will play when building the cities of the future.