The Urban Connector

Peter Murray

NLA, England

Topic: Creating a Greener, Fairer, and More Equitable City for All

In the 20th century we all but destroyed the quality of life in our cities by adapting or designing them to accommodate the ever growing demands of the motor car. Urban policy in the 21st century has to be about weaning urban inhabitants off this potent drug which kills people, pollutes the atmosphere, spews carbon and encourages obesity. As the auto industry and addicts fight back it requires brave politicians and convincing data to make the shift to healthier streets, better spaces and cities that are designed for all citizens and not just the minority who drive cars.

Peter Murray is Curator-in-Chief of New London Architecture (NLA). He has a background in architecture, journalism and design and is also Chairman of The London Society and Past Master of the Worshipful Company of Chartered Architects. A keen cyclist he campaigns for safer cycling and healthier cities. He is a regular commentator and broadcaster on London issues, a Mayor’s Design Advocate and board member of Be First, Barking and Dagenham’s regeneration delivery vehicle.