Mark Whitehead 06 September 2017

Combined authorities should adopt new tech to improve lives, report says

New technology should be used to improve life in recently-devolved combined authorities, according to town planners.

The Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI) says new technology can help the city regions tackle complex economic, social and environmental challenges.

In a report Better Planning: Smart City-Regions, the RTPI says the recent devolution agenda offers opportunities for combined authorities to create 'joined up plans' for housing, infrastructure, health and the environment.

But it says new approaches are needed to understand complex economic, social and environmental trends, build consensus between a wide range of stakeholders and develop long-term plans in conditions of uncertainty.

RTPI policy officer James Harris said: 'Smart-city initiatives show that big data and new technology can improve the efficiency of infrastructure networks and many aspects of city life, but the benefits can go much further.

'By applying technological innovation to strategic planning, we can help combined authorities develop plans for cities and their surrounding areas, including towns and rural areas.

'New types of data can help them tackle a broad range of issues such as growing regional divide, housing, health, and climate change.'

SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

Specialist Customer Service Officer

Oxfordshire County Council
£31,537 - £34,434 per annum
Are you passionate about helping others and making a real impact in your community? We’re looking for Specialist Customer Service Officers to join our dynamic Contact Centre team, the first point of contact for a wide range of essential services acros Oxfordshire County Council , County Hall, Oxford
Recuriter: Oxfordshire County Council

Cook

North Yorkshire Council
£13.47 - £14.13 per hour
Are you keen to join a friendly team who are committed to making a real impact in their local community? Lancaster, Lancashire
Recuriter: North Yorkshire Council

Catering Assistant

North Yorkshire Council
£12.65 - £12.65 per hour
We have an opportunity to join our award-winning Facilities Management catering team. North Yorkshire
Recuriter: North Yorkshire Council

Employment Vetting Officer

Essex County Council
£26090.00 - £30693.00 per annum
Employment Vetting OfficerFixed Term, Full Time£26,090 to £30,693 per annumLocation
Recuriter: Essex County Council

Social Worker Level 2

Royal Borough of Greenwich
PO3 - £45,750 to £49,056
We are pleased to inform you that an opportunity for a Level 2 Social Worker has become available Greenwich, London (Greater)
Recuriter: Royal Borough of Greenwich
Linkedin Banner