The final Kent Design session of 2019 took place at the Turner Contemporary in Margate on 05 December, just days after the controversial winning collaborative of the Turner Prize was announced. The Knowledge Exchange Network focused on Town Centres and Regeneration, drawing on the expertise of key contributors Stuart Watson (Dover DC), Teresa Ryszowska (Dartford BC), Duncan Berntsen (Medway) and Simon Hookway (Gravesham BC).
Chaired by Peter Dijkhuis of GL Hearn the session focused on the critical issues of accessibility and the challenges of funding. Speakers showcased tried and tested approaches to the creation of new urban neighbourhoods, and introduced an experimental approach to visioning impact and massing within town centres.
The Knowledge Exchange Networks are a new format for peer learning and skills sharing, bringing together experienced officers and practitioners to share best practice, shout about the successes and strategise the challenges within the sector.
Kent Design members reflected on the session:
“The ‘new way’ of doing these types of knowledge exchange events was very good i.e. two presentations and then a chance to have a round table discussion.”
“This was one of the best workshop events I have attended. Excellent presentations and subject topics.”
“Cross-authority events such as this are very useful for knowledge sharing.”
The next Knowledge Exchange Network, focused on Historic Environments, will take place on Friday 31 January. We invite officers and practitioners working in heritage, conservation and historic environments to join the conversation. Non-Kent Design members welcome! Further information can be found here: https://www.kentdesign.org/event/knowledge-exchange-network-historic-environments/
