Sue Brownill: Making London’s Docklands

A is for Architecture

For Episode 131 of A is for Architecture I was joined by Professor Sue Brownill, an expert in urban planning and the development of London Docklands to discuss her advocacy, research and writing. As the author of Developing London’s Docklands: Another Great Planning Disaster? (1990, SAGE Publications), Sue delves into the complex history of the Docklands' transformation and the socio-economic consequences of one of the UK’s most ambitious urban regeneration projects.

Professor Brownill provides insightful analysis on the political and economic factors that shaped the area, challenges faced during the regeneration process, and the long-term impact on local communities. She describes how the Docklands evolved from a derelict industrial site into a global financial hub, the triumphs - and failures - of urban regeneration, the role of planning in shaping cities, and the legacy of the London Docklands Development Corporation. Did the LDDC’s rhetoric survive reality? And were the promises made in Docklands’ planning ever met?

A great episode with a fantastic scholar. Listen and learn, no doubt.

Sue can be found on the OB website above, and is on LinkedIn too. Her book is linked above.

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Music credits: ⁠Bruno Gillick