Westminster. A leader in 21st Century innovation?

16 Mar 22

We are already seeing the borough embrace advances; they have adopted their Environment SPD which brings a new focus on sustainability and includes a chapter on retrofitting and sustainable design; but is this enough?

The City of Westminster launched an Innovation Challenge late last year to seek ideas to shape by a ‘Smart City for All’, placing innovation at the heart of the future of the borough.

Westminster has a history of architectural innovation, distinctive design and even tall buildings; many forget that London’s first skyscraper at 15 storeys was built at 55 Broadway in 1929, but it also has a unique set of challenges. Not only does it hold one of the highest concentrations of listed buildings of any local authority in the country and conservation areas covering 77% of the city, but it is also home to buildings and places that are national treasures and global icons.

This creates an additional challenge – how can we continue to ensure that Westminster is at the forefront of design and innovation, while protecting the fabric of the area which makes it so important in our shared history?

Having worked in the Development Management Team for 7 years, I understand the council’s desire to remain at the forefront of high-quality design, innovative architecture, and inspiring places. But I have also seen how difficult this is to deliver, balancing change given the scale of its heritage designations, the residential nature of the area and the expectations of residents.

Westminster has always been an exciting place to work, stay and visit and development which supports 21st century living is something to be embraced. Westminster should look to its past, leading the way in terms of innovation.

In joining Iceni I’m excited to work alongside colleagues with experience in neighbouring boroughs and further afield, tackling new challenges.