Future of London is an independent network for placemaking professionals working on regeneration, housing, infrastructure and economic development in London. Based in London, the organisation says it helps “equipping placemakers to shape a thriving and equitable city” through leadership development, knowledge-sharing and networks. Its audience is mainly public- and private-sector practitioners in the capital, with more than 5,000 professionals using it as a hub.
The organisation’s work is practical rather than advocacy-led. It runs events, publishes research and best-practice material, and offers professional development programmes aimed at strengthening the skills of teams working on the built environment. Recent activity on its website includes a report on the “five priorities” for the homes London will need in future, and new skills programmes for housing teams through its Housing Development Academy. It also runs leadership programmes, including Leaders Plus, and convenes networks that connect borough officers, housing professionals, developers and consultants.
Future of London’s scope is clearly London-focused, though its methods and themes are relevant to urban policy more broadly. Its stated goal is to support better city-making across disciplines, organisations and sectors. The organisation also plays a convening role in the capital, bringing together practitioners around housing delivery, regeneration and public service reform.
The organisation’s leadership has changed over time. Public material on its site notes that Lisa Taylor handed over the role of programme director for Leaders Plus to Elizabeth Rapoport, a former Homes England strategy expert. The wider organisation appears to work with a mix of sponsors and supporters, including public bodies and private firms, to deliver its programmes.
Founded as a professional network rather than a campaign group, Future of London has become a specialist platform for people involved in shaping the capital’s built environment.