Better Places

In the latest episode of the Better Places Podcast, Concilio’s Sam Griffiths is joined by Professor Tony Travers of the London School of Economics, to discuss the upcoming local elections in London in May 2026. Tony is the leading academic expert on London’s government and politics, and this fascinating discussion explores the forces changing London politically and how they are making the elections next year increasingly hard to predict. The topics Tony and Sam cover include: - How is the rise of so-called ‘Pro-Gaza independent’ groups in parts of East London going to challenge Labour’s traditional dominance in these areas, and what ideology drives these new campaigners? - How will the new Green party leader Zack Polanski, and his energetic brand of ‘eco-populism’, impact the race and tempt younger votes away from Labour? - Are the Liberal Democrats poised to make gains, not just in their traditional strongholds in South-West London but also in the centre of the city?   - Can the Conservatives stage a fightback and take back control of their former ‘flagship’ councils like Westminster and Wandsworth? - What will the Reform UK factor be? How will Farage’s upstart party disrupt the contest and what councils could they win? - And finally, what does this upheaval mean for planning and development in the capital? This is an indispensable briefing on the current state of the race to control London’s councils next year, and if you want to understand how planning and development could change in the capital as a result. Concilio will shortly be launching the first in a series of London local election reports – giving you data-led analysis of the key council races, the latest news on campaigns and candidates, and our analysis of what it could mean for the property sector. To sign up to receive the first report when it is released, please click here or email londonelections@conciliocomms.com.

The UK’s #1 ranked panning lawyer, Simon Ricketts, joins the podcast to discuss the Government’s package of support for housebuilding in London. In the latest episode of Concilio’s Better Places Podcast we were joined by the UK’s #1 ranked Planning Lawyer, Simon Ricketts, to discuss the Government and Sadiq Khan’s announcement of 23rd October on a series of measures that can support housebuilding in London. The housing crisis in London is real, with Molior reporting that private construction starts totalled just 3,248 homes in the first three quarters of 2025 and likely 5,000 for the year. One in six construction projects have halted whilst there were only 5,933 new home sales over Q1 to Q3. Alongside this, Build-to-Rent starts are drying up, with Molior predicting that BTR completions are set to disappear after 2027. The human impact of this is stark. More than 130,000 households are living in temporary accommodation in London and the cost of this has led to a £740m black hole for local authorities. Concilio’s MD Nick Dines and Simon look at the Government’s proposed reforms: Time-limited planning route that enables developers to secure planning permission for schemes on private land that provides at least 20% affordable without requiring an upfront viability assessment. This will qualify for Fast Track and be eligible for grant.  Temporary relief from the Community Infrastructure Levy, covering 50% of the borough CIL charge for schemes delivering at least 20% affordable. Adjusting London Plan design guidance on dual aspect requirements, dwellings per core and cycle storage provision.  Enhanced Mayoral planning powers, giving the Mayor the authority over 50 unit schemes, the ability to call in 1,000 sqm Green Belt and MOL and allow written rep call ins. An initial £322m allocation to establish a City Hall Developer Investment Fund Simon explains his understanding on the timings involved and looks at four different scenarios for developers: Existing planning permission that is unimplemented or is a phased consent Application approved by Committee yet does not have the Section 106 signed An application that has been submitted but has not been determined  An application not yet submitted The podcast is a fascinating, must-listen episode if you want to understand how significant the changes coming to planning in London are.

In the latest episode of Concilio’s Better Places Podcast, we sat down with James Johnson, Founding Partner of JL Partners, to explore how Reform can win a majority in 2029.  James previously served as the Senior Opinion Research and Strategy Advisor to Prime Minister Theresa May. JL Partners are one of the UK's most accurate pollsters (and one of the very few to project a win for Donald Trump in the 2024 US election). James delves into the explosive rise of Reform UK, sharing Friderichs Advisory Partners and JL Partners latest in-depth polling and ground-level voter analysis data that reveals why Reform is the current polling frontrunner. Our discussion explores the real reasons for Reform’s success and the unprecendented drop in support behind the Labour government and the Conservative Party.  We explore: The Winter Fuel Allowance Effect: Why a year-old policy U-turn is still the most-mentioned reason for Labour's decline. The Reform Voter Profile: The key motivations of the "Pessimistic Patriots," and why their concerns are pragmatic issues like public services and housing—not the fringe right agendas that dominate online discourse. The Path to Power: The strategic roadmap showing how Reform's current appeal is perfectly aligned with the First Past the Post system to deliver a massive seat dividend and a potential majority. The Competence Trap: Why, in 2025, voters prioritize a party that shares their values and promises to get things done over one that simply projects a traditional image of competence. This episode is an essential listen for anyone seeking a unfashionable take on the seismic shifts shaping British politics and the true forces driving Reform UK's ascent up the polls and potentially, into power. And stay tuned! Next week, we will release the second edition of our Inside Reform report series, exploring Reform’s expanding footprint in local government. The report will highlight early moves by councils under their control, as well as controversial policy calls from mayoral leaders, and shine a light on the party's gains across the country in the past month's by-elections.  Join our mailing list now to receive our next report direct to your inbox.

In Our Public Spaces, High Streets & the Experience Economy At this year’s Labour Party Conference, one of the key themes was the urgent need to build more homes and restore confidence in the market. But as our panel discussed, London’s future isn’t just about housing numbers - it’s also about placemaking, culture, and the experience economy. Hosted by Concilio’s Yiannis Sophocleous and Siddo Dwyer, we asked: How do we Make London Fun Again? Our brilliant panel: Cllr Geoff Barraclough - Cabinet Member for Planning & Economic Development, Westminster City Council Cllr Portia Mwangangye - Cabinet Member for Leisure, Parks & Young People, Southwark Council Antonia Stratford - Head of Public Affairs, Heart of London Business Alliance Graeme Craig - Chief Executive, Places for London Key takeaways: London’s diversity is its greatest strength - celebrate and protect it. Housing and community building are investments in London’s and the UK’s future. Young people and diverse communities must be central to consultations and policy. The West End’s experience economy is pivotal to London’s global standing - business, culture, and government need to work hand-in-hand to keep it competitive.  Don’t miss this conversation – listen now! 

London’s Deputy Mayor for Environment and Energy, Mete Coban MBE joins Concilio’s Account Director Siddo Dwyer to discuss the future of a greener London. In the latest episode of Concilio’s Better Places podcast, Account Director Siddo Dwyer sits down with Mete Coban MBE, London’s Deputy Mayor for Environment and Energy. From growing up in a council flat in Hackney to shaping London’s city-wide response to the climate crisis, Mete brings both lived experience and bold vision to one of the capital’s most urgent challenges. Previously Hackney’s youngest ever councillor and a trailblazing Cabinet Member for Environment and Transport, he now leads City Hall’s work to clean up London’s air and rivers, decarbonise its buildings, and deliver a just transition to net zero. The conversation explores what it means to deliver climate action at the scale of a global city while keeping communities, fairness, and placemaking at the heart of that mission. We discuss London’s retrofit revolution, the drive to make rivers swimmable within a decade, and how planning and investment can support greener, healthier neighbourhoods. Mete also shares his thoughts on local leadership, community power, and why climate justice must be about lowering bills, creating good jobs, and improving quality of life for those who’ve historically been left behind. This episode offers a hopeful, grounded take on what London’s green transition looks like in practice - from the policy levers at City Hall to the front doors of Londoners’ homes - and the leadership it will take to get us there. Don’t miss this conversation – listen now! 

Portland Design’s Managing Director, Ibrahim Ibrahim joins Concilio’s Account Director Siddo Dwyer to discuss human-centred placeshaping and future-ready retail. In the latest episode of Concilio’s Better Places Podcast, Account Director Siddo Dwyer sits down with Ibrahim Ibrahim, Managing Director of Portland Design and one of the UK’s leading voices on human-centred placeshaping and future-ready retail, to explore how rapid change is rewriting the rules of design and development. Key points discussed: The evolution of Portland from retail design agency to global strategic consultancy The importance of connection, experience, and belonging in successful places Community-led placemaking and its role in shaping neighbourhoods Reimagining passenger and visitor experiences in transport hubs Insights from Future-Ready Retail and Ibrahim’s upcoming book Ibrahim shares how his background in engineering and industrial design has informed his approach to placemaking, blending technical rigour with creative vision. He reflects on projects from Elephant & Castle to King’s Cross, and international airport transformations, explaining how design can drive human connection and business value. The conversation highlights why future-ready places are measured not just in footfall, but in emotional resonance, and why collaboration between designers, developers, and communities is critical to creating thriving, meaningful destinations.  Don’t miss this conversation – listen now! 

Chief Executive of Huntingdonshire District Council, Michelle Sacks, and the CEO of the Cambridgeshire Chamber of Commerce, Charlotte Horobin, join Nick Dines to explain economic growth opportunities for the County. In the latest episode of Concilio’s Better Places podcast, Managing Director Nick Dines is joined by the Chief Executive of Huntingdonshire District Council, Michelle Sacks, and the CEO of the Cambridgeshire Chamber of Commerce, Michelle Horobin. The conversation explores:  Cambridge's global reputation in science and technology - and how that success can benefit the wider County  The contribution of sectors like logistics, advanced manufacturing, agritech and defence - sometimes overlooked, but vital to the region's economy.  The role of Anglia Ruskin University in supporting skills, training and access to opportunity.  The importance of collaboration between all of the local authorities in the County, Combined Authority, business and education to deliver growth that works for communities.  Don’t miss this conversation – listen now!

From grassroots football to the council leadership, Enfield’s Leader shares his vision for a fairer, safer and more ambitious borough. In the latest episode of Concilio’s Better Places podcast, Managing Director Nick Dines is joined by Cllr Ergin Erbil, Leader of Enfield Council. The conversation covers: Local leadership and the shift from Deputy to Leader of the Council Policing and Operation Pisces – tackling anti-social behaviour, drug crime and public safety The Enfield Local Plan – including Green Belt proposals, family housing delivery, and industrial land Major development at Meridian Water  The role of Angel Yard and meanwhile uses in supporting local enterprise Temporary accommodation pressures, the rise in homelessness and HMO concerns Creating real partnerships with the private sector to deliver social and affordable homes Don’t miss this conversation – listen now!

Chief Executive of Hackney Wick and Fish Island CDT, Patrick Scally, joins Nick Dines to explore how grassroots leadership, long-term stewardship and community collaboration are reshaping regeneration in East London. In the latest episode of Concilio’s Better Places podcast, Managing Director Nick Dines is joined by Patrick Scally, Chief Executive of Hackney Wick and Fish Island Community Development Trust (CDT). The conversation explores: How the CDT was formed in response to rapid regeneration after the Olympics The long-term lease at 290 Wallis Road and how the CDT delivers a meanwhile-use model rooted in the circular economy The role of local voices in shaping development – from policy and planning to placemaking and programming How affordable workspace can be both commercially viable and socially meaningful Lessons for developers, planners and councils on how to go beyond box-ticking and enable truly community-led regeneration Don’t miss this conversation – listen now!

How the Cambridge Growth Company is setting the stage for infrastructure-led, inclusive development. Peter Freeman, Chairman of the Cambridge Growth Company and co-founder of Argent, joins Better Places to share a bold vision for Cambridge’s future. Drawing on his experience delivering major regeneration projects such as King’s Cross, Peter outlines how the newly established Growth Company will tackle the city’s most pressing infrastructure challenges. With Cambridge facing mounting pressures on transport, water, and energy, the Growth Company’s “infrastructure-first” approach aims to unlock sustainable development at scale, combining new homes, jobs, schools, and public spaces in integrated masterplans. Backed by a new evidence base and expert team, the company will play a central role in attracting long-term private investment. Peter also stresses that the city’s growth must be inclusive. Connecting all communities to Cambridge’s economic success, through better transport, targeted training, and access to opportunity, is key to creating a fairer future. Tune in to hear how Peter plans to make Cambridge a global exemplar of placemaking by 2050, and what it means for the region, its people, and its future

Leader of Haringey Council, Cllr Peray Ahmet, joins Concilio’s Account Director Siddo Dwyer for a conversation on housing, inclusive growth and estate regeneration. In the latest episode of Concilio’s Better Places podcast, Account Director Siddo Dwyer sits down with Cllr Peray Ahmet, Leader of Haringey Council.  Since becoming Leader in 2021, Peray has overseen a shift in the borough’s trajectory: restoring confidence in housing delivery, embedding a renewed focus on inclusive growth, and retelling the story of a borough with ambition. The conversation explores: What it means to lead a borough post-HDV How estate regeneration can be done with - not to – communities How Peray’s team is tackling long-standing questions about Wood Green and employment opportunity Haringey’s future as London Borough of Culture in 2027 Don’t miss this conversation – listen now!

Leader of Harlow Council, Cllr Dan Swords, joins Concilio’s Nick Dines and Salvatore Pagdades to discuss the bold and ambitious plans for Harlow’s future. In the latest episode of Concilio’s Better Places podcast, Managing Director Nick Dines and Account Executive Salvatore Pagdades sit down with Cllr Dan Swords, Leader of Harlow Council. Key points discussed: ·      Dan’s six ‘missions’ for the council ·      Building Harlow’s Future plan - including bold town centre regeneration plans ·      Harlow and Gilston Garden Town ·      Harlow Growth Board and its new Chair ·      Influence of Sir Frederick Gibberd’s New Town  As local government reform and a proposed Mayoral Combined Authority loom, Dan shares his views on how Harlow can lead - not be led - in shaping its next chapter.  Don’t miss this conversation – listen now! 

Newly elected Chairman of the Planning and Transportation Committee at the City of London Corporation, Tom Sleigh, joins Concilio’s Associate Director Luke Tatton. In the latest episode of Concilio’s Better Places podcast, Associate Director Luke Tatton sits down with Tom Sleigh, newly elected Chairman of the City of London Corporation’s Planning and Transportation Committee. Key points discussed: ·      Fresh leadership at a pivotal time for the Square Mile ·      The Draft City Plan 2040 and its focus on retrofit, sustainability and growth ·      Major cultural investment, including the Barbican Renewal ·      Emerging priorities in AI, urban design and inclusive public realm ·      The evolving ground-floor strategy and its role in attracting workers and visitors ·      Balancing historic character with a dynamic, future-facing skyline This episode offers insight into the new leadership and vision of Tom Sleigh as the City looks to its future. Don’t miss this conversation – listen now! 

Nick Dines speaks to the CEO of Hub about BTR, co-living and unlocking stalled sites. On this episode of the Better Places Podcast, Concilio’s Nick Dines is joined by Robert Sloss, CEO of Hub, for a deep dive into how Build to Rent has evolved in the UK and what it takes to drive true regeneration. From transforming Maidenhead town centre to unlocking complex sites in Romford and Croydon, Robert discusses the power of institutional capital, the challenges of viability, and the future of co-living.  A must-listen for developers, planners, and anyone shaping the future of our urban centres. 

Shaun joins Concllio's Managing Director to discuss commercial real estate in the City Fringe and how Compton seeks to stand out by challenging industry norms. — In the latest edition of the Concilio Better Places podcast, Shaun Simons, founder of Compton, joined Concilio's Managing Director Nick Dines to discuss the evolving landscape of commercial real estate in London’s city fringe. Shaun shared insights into Compton’s journey to its current role as a leading agency specialising in vibrant, creative districts. He highlighted the challenges of making commercial property more engaging, emphasising branding, storytelling, and community integration. The discussion covered shifting market dynamics post-COVID, the rise of flexible office spaces, and the impact of planning policies on development. Shaun also addressed the future of Canary Wharf, the oversupply of office space in certain areas, and the need for more adaptive planning strategies. Looking ahead, Shaun explains how Compton aims to continue challenging industry norms, embrace innovation, and expand its influence in London’s commercial property sector.

How TfL’s land is being transformed into new homes, places, and genuine social value In this episode of Better Places, Concilio’s Siddo Dwyer is joined by Graeme Craig, CEO of Places for London, and Mark Walker, the organisation’s Strategic Engagement Lead. Together they discuss how Places for London is reshaping the capital by unlocking land around transport hubs to deliver thousands of new homes and public spaces. From Bollo Lane to Cockfosters, we explore how the team is tackling London’s biggest challenges - housing need, sustainability, and trust in development—while delivering value back into the transport network. Mark shares lessons from a career in political engagement and explains why listening to communities from day one is key. This is an insightful look at how public land can be harnessed for public good—without compromising on ambition or delivery. Listen now!

Concilio’s Managing Director, Nick Dines, sat down with the Mayor of Cambridgeshire and Peterborough, Paul Bristow, at UKREiiF. In the latest episode of Concilio’s Better Places podcast, Managing Director, Nick Dines, sat down with the Mayor of Cambridgeshire and Peterborough, Paul Bristow, at UKREiiF to discuss Our Time is Now – the Mayor’s bold vision for unlocking the region’s full potential. Paul highlighted the importance of ensuring growth benefits for the whole region – not just Cambridge, but also places like Peterborough, which he sees as having significant untapped potential. He committed to strategic infrastructure like a Cambridge Light Rail system - calling it more suitable and future-proof than current bus-based schemes such as CSET. Paul also spoke about the need for greater political unity across parties and local authorities, positioning the mayoralty as a powerful regional voice – inspired by figures like Andy Burnham and Ben Houchen. He was clear about the need for governance reform, suggesting bodies like the Greater Cambridge Partnership, may no longer be fit for purpose and should be replaced by more streamlined structures, including the potential creation of two new unitary authorities. With new devolved planning powers akin to those held by the Mayor of London, Paul is now able to deliver a pro-growth Spatial Development Strategy. He spoke of the need to shape long-term development – including around 150,000 new homes – to ensure it meets the needs of local people and future generations. Finally, he spotlighted major strategic ambitions such as a new stadium for Peterborough, underlining the importance of getting ahead of growth to ensure it delivers for communities across Cambridgeshire and Peterborough.  Don’t miss this conversation – listen now! 

Leader of Ealing Council, Cllr Peter Mason, joins Concilio’s Managing Director Nick Dines to discuss housing, regeneration and Ealing’s future. In this episode of the Better Places podcast, Cllr Peter Mason, Leader of Ealing Council, sits down with Concilio Managing Director Nick Dines to explore how Ealing is planning for a future built on housing delivery, local identity, and innovation.   They discuss the borough’s ambitious Local Plan, the 20-minute neighbourhood model, and how Ealing is preparing residents for new opportunities through the West London Tech Corridor and Old Oak Common. Mason also shares his thoughts on climate action, infrastructure investment, and why he believes empowered boroughs are key to London’s success.   Don’t miss this conversation – listen now!

Chairman of the Planning and Transportation Committee at the City of London Corporation, Shravan Joshi, joins Concilio’s Account Director Luke Tatton for a deep dive into the Square Mile’s future. In the latest episode of Concilio’s Better Places podcast, Account Director Luke Tatton sits down with Shravan Joshi, Chairman of the Planning and Transportation Committee at the City of London Corporation, for a deep dive into the Square Mile’s future – providing insight into emerging policy, digital planning, and the next generation of talent and investment. Shravan also discusses what’s next for the Planning and Transportation Committee and his role following the end of his tenure as Chairman. Key points discussed: The recent City of London Corporation Common Council elections The ambitions of City Plan 2040 Digital planning initiatives How sustainability, culture, and infrastructure will shape the years ahead Balancing Development with Heritage This episode offers insight into the challenges and opportunities facing the City of London as it looks ahead to 2040.  Don’t miss this conversation – listen now! 

Alex Woolf, COO of Romulus, on reimagining a former shopping centre for a new era of local living, leisure and flexible working. In this episode of the Better Places podcast, Concilio’s Managing Director, Nick Dines, sits down with Alex Woolf, Chief Operating Officer at Romulus, to explore how the team turned the struggling Centre Court shopping centre into Wimbledon Quarter - a thriving, community-focused destination. Alex shares the vision behind the transformation, from bringing in new uses like co-working, leisure and independent F&B, to building local partnerships and even launching a rooftop mushroom farm. With footfall rising and new tenants thriving, Wimbledon Quarter is a case study in long-term regeneration that puts people and place first. Don’t miss this conversation – listen now!