The London Society Podcast

What role do civic societies really play in shaping London? Are they powerful defenders of local communities, or are they unfairly blamed for blocking the homes and infrastructure the capital desperately needs?

In this episode of Talk About London, Leanne Tritton, The London Society and Dave Hill, OnLondon are joined by architect and former RIBA President Ben Derbyshire to explore the history, purpose and future of London's civic societies. They unpack where these organisations came from, what influence they actually have in the planning system, and why there is so much misunderstanding about their role.

The conversation examines the balance between protecting local character and enabling the high-quality development London needs, challenges the perception that civic societies are simply "NIMBY" organisations, and discusses how they can become more representative of the communities they serve. The episode also explores the wider barriers to delivering housing—from planning and finance to public engagement—and considers how civic societies can become constructive partners in creating a better London.
Whether you're a resident, planner, architect, councillor or simply someone who cares about the future of the capital, this episode offers a thoughtful look at one of London's most important, but often overlooked, parts of civic life.

Timestamps:
00:00 - Introduction to civic societies and their role in London

01:12 - What is a civic society? Origins and early focus

02:40 - Historical context of civic activism and key figures like Octavia Hill

04:36 - Civic societies today: statutory powers and limitations

05:35 - The importance of civic influence versus statutory power

06:42 - Examples of civic influence and campaigns in London

07:56 - Challenges posed by statutory consultees and "NIMBY" labels

08:39 - Planning reform, streamlining, and civic engagement

09:56 - Campaigns: opposition in civic societies and their validity

11:18 - The positive role of civic societies in supporting public good and high-quality housing

12:17 - The importance of constructive civic participation and diversity

13:03 - Engaging new generations and diverse voices in planning

14:22 - The impact of demographic shifts on civic involvement and planning interest

15:52 - The undervalued contribution of civic societies in local planning debates

17:12 - The potential for civic societies to influence detailed urban policies

18:07 - Overcoming old stereotypes and encouraging younger, diverse memberships

19:23 - The need to improve genuine engagement over superficial consultation processes

20:03 - Young people's creativity and energy in urban activism

21:26 - The challenge of meaningful participation and constructive debate

22:50 - The disconnect between the housing crisis and public perception

23:43 - Alternative models for funding social housing, including bonds and public investment

25:20 - Recognizing the historical role of Section 106 in urban development

26:23 - The positive perception of young people's engagement when opportunities are available

27:19 - Defining "good growth" and the importance of housing as infrastructure

28:44 - The balance between local character and innovative urban design

29:22 - Examples of modern, context-sensitive architecture and design standards

31:23 - The valuable input civic societies provide in planning and development debates

32:00 - Encouraging wider public involvement in civic and planning activities

33:36 - The joy of activism and community engagement in urban renewal projects

34:04 - Closing thoughts: how to better involve local communities in shaping London
Resources & Links:
London Society
London.co.uk
Octavia Hill - Biography
London Forum of Amenities and Civic Societies
Victorian Society
Society for the Preservation of Ancient Buildings (SPAB)
20th Century Society
Sadiq Khan's Good Growth Policy
Section 106 Agreements
Connect with Ben Derbyshire:
LinkedIn
Twitter

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London's local elections have reshaped the political map of the capital, bringing in new councillors, new administrations and new priorities. But what happens after the votes are counted?

In this episode of Talk About London, Dave Hill, OnLondon and Leanne Tritton, The London Society are joined by Karen Alcock, one of London's most experienced public affairs professionals, to explore the practical realities of governing the city after a major election.

From planning committees and housing delivery to political leadership, coalition-building and the challenge of bringing new councillors up to speed, Karen explains how local government actually works when the headlines have faded.

The conversation looks at why decision-making can slow after elections, what this means for housing and development, how City Hall is responding to growing pressures on the planning system, and what residents, businesses and developers should expect over the coming months.

Whether you're interested in politics, planning, housing or simply how London functions, this episode offers a clear and accessible guide to the challenges and opportunities facing the capital as its new leaders get down to work.

1:12 - Discussion on the scale of change across boroughs
1:32 - Karen's insights on minority control and coalitions
2:14 - Challenges faced by new councillors
3:12 - Importance of officers in council operations
4:35 - Timeframe for councils to settle and make decisions
5:18 - Financial and political decision-making processes
6:19 - Expected delays in council operations
7:17 - Discussion on estate renewal and local plans
9:00 - Impact of political changes on council operations
10:05 - Loss of political muscle memory
11:21 - Collaboration between new and old councillors
12:26 - Day-to-day life of new councillors
15:11 - Discussion on housing and development challenges
19:14 - Mayoral interventions in planning decisions
23:15 - Green Party's approach to development
28:10 - Concerns about leadership and management techniques
29:39 - Future challenges like AI and data centers
31:24 - Mayoral interventions and their impact
35:06 - Emergency measures and planning policy changes
37:01 - Closing remarks and optimism for new councillors

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The Mayor of London is one of the most important roles in the country - shaping how the city grows, lives and works. But is there another way to run London?
In this episode of Talk About London, Peter Murray joins Leanne Tritton, The London Society and Dave Hill, OnLondon to argue that London’s future hinges on something often overlooked: the built environment.

With a housing crisis deepening and 600,000 people working across the sector, Peter sets out a more pragmatic, less political approach - one that brings together developers, communities and City Hall to unlock growth. From street votes and estate ballots to reducing development risk and learning from places like King’s Cross, he makes the case for a more collaborative, confident London.

If we want to build the homes and infrastructure the city needs, it starts with how we think about — and talk about — the places we shape every day.

Timestamps:

00:00 - Introduction to Peter Murray's candidacy and his background in London's development
02:44 - Addressing London's housing shortage and affordability crisis
03:41 - Knowledge gaps among candidates regarding London's built environment
06:07 - The significance of the built environment sector in London's economy
07:28 - The potential for independent candidates to succeed in London politics
09:44 - Why politicians struggle to understand London's development challenges
10:10 - The legacy of Ken Livingstone and pragmatism in urban planning
13:28 - The importance of supporting small and local builders
15:08 - The role of community involvement and local engagement
16:33 - The importance of better communication and public trust in development
17:16 - How social media can support development advocacy
20:11 - The influence of political fragmentation and the potential for independent mayoral leadership
23:37 - The possibility of collaboration rather than confrontation with local authorities
24:32 - Reducing conflicts in development processes through dialogue
28:00 - The potential of consensus-building and cross-party collaboration
32:41 - Challenges of densifying suburban London and innovative solutions
33:11 - The role of street-level agreements in development approval
35:23 - How reducing risk for developers can boost London’s housing supply
36:52 - Transforming planning departments into enablers of development
37:19 - The importance of building a sense of London citizenship and unity
38:12 - Advocating for community-building campaigns using London’s assets
39:41 - The importance of promoting London’s identity through symbols like flags and initiatives
40:24 - Fostering a shared London identity to overcome divisions
41:20 - Combating hate and promoting inclusivity in London
42:46 - The role of civic society in shaping the city’s future



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In this episode of Talk About London, the focus is on the upcoming council elections in London. Leanne Tritton, The London Society and Dave Hill, OnLondon are joined by Professor Tony Travers CBE, Director of LSE London at the London School of Economics, and Dr Nick Bowes FRGS, Managing Director, Insight and Public Affairs at LCA, to unpack what’s at stake. Nick has served as a local councillor.

The discussion highlights the scale of the elections, with 1,817 representatives set to be elected across 32 borough councils, and explores how local contests often act as a barometer for national political sentiment—raising the prospect of significant shifts in London’s political landscape.

Key themes include the fragmentation of traditional party loyalties, the rise of independent candidates, and the complexities of governing a city with increasingly diverse political dynamics. The conversation also examines the implications of councils falling into no overall control, the evolving role of local government, and the importance of experience in elected office.

The episode concludes with a reflection on the value of local politicians—and the enduring paradox between public trust in politics and how people ultimately vote.
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Dave Hill from OnLondon and Leanne Tritton, The London Society talk to Tim Reeve, COO of the V&A, about how culture can shape the future of London—and why it matters for the city’s next generation of places.

Drawing on the V&A’s work at East Bank in the Olympic Park, Tim shares how projects like the V&A East Museum and Storehouse are rethinking what a museum can be: open, accessible and embedded in the life of local communities. From behind-the-scenes access to working collections to bold public art, these initiatives are designed to engage new audiences and make culture feel relevant.

We explore how this approach is attracting a younger, more diverse audience, helping to rebuild trust in national institutions and demonstrating the role culture can play in social change. The conversation also looks ahead, asking whatLondon's New Towns Enfield and Thamesmead can learn as they develop their own identities.

More broadly, Tim reflects on London’s evolving cultural landscape, where activity is no longer concentrated in the centre but spread across the city—creating a more inclusive and dynamic model for the future.

If you’re interested in how culture can help shape better places, this episode offers a compelling and practical perspective.

00:00 - Introduction to the V&A East Museum and its mission
01:00 - The family of V&A museums and upcoming East Bank opening
01:46 - The theme of making and East London heritage
02:45 - Location significance and historical context of East Bank
03:04 - Opening date and visitor experience overview
03:32 - Sculpture "A Place Beyond" and its symbolism
04:17 - Collaboration with artist Thomas J. Price and community focus
05:13 - Representation of East London in art and impact of public artworks
06:22 - Inside the new building designed by Dublin-based O'Donnell and Toomey
07:25 - Culinary and architectural features of the V&A East Museum
07:55 - The "We Make" galleries: showcasing collections and new commissions
09:11 - Temporary exhibitions and public programs including Terrace views
09:34 - The success of the Storehouse reserve collection and visitor engagement
10:47 - The innovative approach to behind-the-scenes accessibility
12:12 - Visitor numbers and the cultural significance of expanding access
13:12 - Connecting East London with the national collections and community outreach
14:42 - Demographic insights: young, ethnically diverse visitors
15:46 - The broader Olympic Park legacy and its role in urban regeneration
21:21 - The origin and development of the East Bank cultural quarter post-Olympics
23:39 - Political commitment and the evolution of the cultural vision for London
30:41 - Dispersal of cultural institutions across different London districts
31:30 - Success stories like the Childhood Museum and flagship exhibitions
33:39 - The long-term strategy behind blockbuster exhibitions and innovation
34:49 - Summary and closing thoughts on London's cultural future

Resources & Links:
Victoria and Albert Museum - Official Site
Thomas J. Price - Artist Profile
Storehouse at the V&A
V&A East Museum - Official Announcement
David Bowie Archive - Official Site
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