Picture This Podcast - Episode 1, Season 2

Place and Children

Host: Shannon Conway Guests: Pauline Johnston & Tim Gill

Welcome to Season 2 of The Picture This Podcast.

In this episode we delve into the vital topic of child-friendly urban spaces with two advocates for children's rights and urban spaces: Tim Gill and Pauline Johnston. With a shared passion for transforming communities, they explore the intersection of urban planning, active travel, and children's needs, revealing how our cities can be reimagined for the better.

Join us as they explore: - The importance of integrating children's voices in urban planning. - Comparative insights from international case studies on child-friendly spaces. - The role of risk in play and its significance in child development. - Innovative community-driven initiatives like Pauline's "On the Way Play" project in Stockport. - The pressing issue of car-centric planning and its effects on children's safety and well-being.

With a focus on practical solutions and the necessity for systemic change, Tim and Pauline challenge the status quo and advocate for a future where children can thrive in safe, engaging, and playful environments. Don't miss this opportunity to rethink how we design our cities for the next generation.

Links:

ISO 4980:2023 - Benefit-risk assessment for sports and recreational facilities, activities and equipment https://www.iso.org/obp/ui/en/#iso:std:iso:4980:ed-1:v1:en

Link to Tim Gill's books and work: https://rethinkingchildhood.com/

Follow Pauline Johnston: https://www.instagram.com/civicandsocial/

Subscribe to stay inspired and informed.

Podcast editing and production by CitySeventeen.

Picture This Podcast - Episode 5, Season 1

Place and Ageing

Host: Shannon Conway Guest: Dr Mark Hammond

In this episode we delve into the concept of age-friendly design in our homes and public spaces. What does it mean to be age-friendly, and why is it crucial for everyone involved in urban development?

Dr. Mark Hammond, a senior lecturer at the Manchester School of Architecture brings over 15 years of research on the relationship between aging populations and urban environments to the table.

In this episode, we discuss: - The misconceptions about age-friendly environments and the importance of inclusivity. - The benefits of intergenerational communities and the role older adults play in strengthening social fabric. - The challenges and opportunities in designing spaces that cater to diverse age groups. - Practical steps developers, architects, and policymakers can take to create age-friendly spaces.

Dr. Hammond also shares insights from the recent publication, "Creating Age-Friendly Developments," and provides real-world examples of successful implementations.

Whether you're a developer, urban planner, or simply interested in how our environments can better serve all generations, this episode is packed with valuable information and inspiration.

Stay inspired and stay informed by subscribing to The Picture This Podcast. Share the word with friends and fellow enthusiasts, and until next time, keep picturing the possibilities!

The Picture This Podcast is supported by Material Source, a studio and space where creative and practical minds collide.

Podcast editing and production by CitySeventeen.

Picture This Podcast - Episode 4, Season 1

Place and Performing Arts

Host: Shannon Conway Guest: Melanie Lewis

In this episode of The Picture This Podcast, we delve into the critical role of performance spaces in urban regeneration. Join us as we explore how integrating performance spaces into our built environment can act as a catalyst for economic and social transformation.

Our guest for today is Melanie Lewis, former Chief Executive of Shakespeare North Playhouse. Melanie brings a wealth of experience from her career spanning arts, culture, museums, and football. She takes us through the journey of Shakespeare North Playhouse, a purpose-built theatre in Prescot, and its profound impact on the local community.

We discuss the unique design of the cockpit-in-court theatre, its historical significance, and how it has revitalised Prescot, a town steeped in history but facing economic challenges. Melanie shares insights into the strategic objectives behind building the playhouse, the importance of making theatre accessible and relevant to all, and the broader implications for urban regeneration.

Key topics covered in this episode include: - The historical and cultural significance of the cockpit-in-court theatre. - The transformative impact of Shakespeare North Playhouse on Prescot's economy and community. - The role of performance spaces in fostering community cohesion and social mobility. - The challenges and strategies in making theatre accessible and relevant to diverse audiences. - The importance of equitable and inclusive design in public spaces. - Innovative approaches to funding and sustaining arts and culture institutions. - How performance and creative expression can serve as tools for education, social commentary, and political discourse.

Whether you're an urban planner, a theatre enthusiast, or someone interested in the intersection of culture and community development, this episode offers valuable insights and inspiring stories.

Guest Bio:

Melanie Lewis is the former Chief Executive of Shakespeare North Playhouse. With a career spanning various leadership roles in arts, culture, museums, and football, Melanie has been instrumental in bringing the vision of Shakespeare North Playhouse to life. Her dedication to community engagement and urban regeneration through the arts is evident in her work and the transformative impact of the playhouse on Prescot.

Subscribe and Stay Connected. Stay inspired and stay informed by subscribing to The Picture This Podcast. Share this episode with your friends and fellow enthusiasts, and let's keep picturing the possibilities together.

The Picture This Podcast is supported by Material Source, a studio and space where creative and practical minds collide.

Podcast editing and production by CitySeventeen.