{"id":780141,"date":"2025-03-24T15:45:24","date_gmt":"2025-03-24T15:45:24","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.architectsjournal.co.uk\/?p=780141"},"modified":"2025-03-25T11:03:37","modified_gmt":"2025-03-25T11:03:37","slug":"public-realm-innovation-initiative","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.architectsjournal.co.uk\/competitions\/public-realm-innovation-initiative","title":{"rendered":"Public Realm Innovation Initiative"},"content":{"rendered":"

Landowners, developers, joint ventures, design teams and operators are invited to step forward for an initiative which could help unlock the \u2018next generation\u2019 of public spaces capable of supporting economic growth, wellbeing and climate resilience.<\/p>\n

The \u2018Public Realm Innovation Initiative\u2019 will see a winning participant work with Connected Places Catapult to joint fund and roll out a \u2018test and learn intervention\u2019 which could help to build an evidence base, consolidate policies and harness meaningful community engagement in support of new high quality public realm.<\/p>\n

Alan Welby, managing director for the built environment and local growth at Connected Places Catapult, said: \u2018<\/strong>We are looking for an ambitious partner who values innovation and is eager to position their location as the centrepiece of a groundbreaking initiative to test and refine new ideas for better public spaces.<\/p>\n

\u2018Our ultimate ambition is to transform how public spaces are planned, funded and delivered – unlocking social, environmental and economic value at scale. By driving innovation, collaboration, and evidence-based decision-making, we aim to create resilient, inclusive and high-impact spaces that benefit both communities and economies.\u2019<\/p>\n

Founded in 2019 \u2013 the Connected Places Catapult is an innovation agency focussed on built environment, cities and local growth. It has premises in London, Milton Keynes and Birmingham.<\/p>\n

The latest open call seeks an innovation partner who could work alongside the agency, academics and technologists to develop and trial new public realm solutions focussed initially on improving health and wellbeing.<\/p>\n

The organisation already operates similar test beds initiatives such as the Station Innovation Zone<\/a> with Network Rail at Bristol Temple Meads and the Connected Airport Living Lab<\/a> with AGS Airports at Glasgow Airport.<\/p>\n

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Competition details<\/strong><\/h3>\n

Project title<\/strong> Public Realm Innovation Initiative
\nClient<\/strong> Connected Places Catapult
\nContract value <\/strong>Tbc
\nFirst round deadline<\/strong> 30 April 2025
\nRestrictions <\/strong>Expressions of interest are welcomed from individual organisations, consortia, or joint ventures that:<\/p>\n