Directors Gareth Atkinson and Leah Stuart have been appointed to NLA Expert Panels, which bring together industry experts to advise on programme research; provide thought-leadership on design, development and construction in London, and respond to new policies and consultations. 

Leah has been appointed to the transport and infrastructure panel while Gareth is starting his third year on the net zero panel. Over the course of a year, the pair will continue developing the New London Agenda, sharing thought-leadership, actively engaging with the new Mayor of London and championing London. 

Gareth commented: “The impact of the NLA Expert Panels to date has been monumental, and I’m pleased to be appointed for a third year running to build on our achievements in shaping the New London Agenda. 

“The climate crisis poses an immense threat, and it’s critical we promote the opportunities of low carbon design through the circular economy and speed up progress in the industry. With the Mayoral election later this year, it’s a pivotal time to use our combined knowledge and experience to maintain the focus on reducing embodied carbon spend and contributing to a net zero London.”  

Leah said: “It’s never been more important for us to plan for future generations, value diversity and think beyond boundaries as we look to tackle some of the challenges facing the industry. NLA Expert Panels provide an opportunity for us to come together to address these issues.  

“In London, there’s much to be celebrated about the plans for more active travel, cycle lanes and walking routes, but there’s still more to be done. The capital has the potential to be a shining example for a more inclusive, people-focussed approach to designing our transport systems, towns and cities. But I’m also excited to bring learnings from the regions to the table when it comes to unlocking growth and accessibility.” 

You can find out more about the NLA Expert Panels here and below: 

• Net zero panel overview – To meet the Paris Agreement declaration, the Mayor of London has declared a climate emergency, committing to become carbon neutral by 2050. This panel will focus on understanding the priorities for London to achieve net zero, and the role that the built environment has to play in meeting this target. Topics of focus will include London and local leadership, adaptability and flexibility of building stock, resilience and green infrastructure, and a prioritising a green recovery for London. 

• Transport and infrastructure panel overview – The Mayor of London has launched ambitious new plans that will dramatically transform London’s streets to accommodate new cycle lanes and space for walking. This panel will focus on the future of mobility and modal share of streets for all users, as well as the impact of transport infrastructure in unlocking growth and accessibility across the capital.