Build 2015, part one

Chapter 1

What is Build?

Run by the German Marshall Fund of the US, Build is a three-day conference focusing on how to lead transformative change in cities and what these cities can learn from one another. The transatlantic partnership is a key element of Build. Geraldine Gardner, urban and regional policy director for GMF, tells us more.

Chapter 2

Lessons in inclusion through Stuttgart

One of the main topics of this year’s edition of Build was how cities can act on the global stage and manage inclusion. The date and theme for the event was set over a year ago and it took place in the midst of one of the worst migrant crises Europe has ever witnessed. Michael Münter, policy director for the city of Stuttgart, gives us a glimpse of how his city is coping with the 4,300 migrants who have arrived so far.

Chapter 3

Revitalising Lodz city centre through transport

The way in which a city is perceived internationally can shape how it behaves internally – and transport is a key issue. With that in mind, Poland has launched The New Centre of Lodz programme, a redevelopment initiative involving nearly 100 hectares of urban space in the heart of the city. Blazej Moder, the director of the New Centre of Lodz Authority, tells us how it plans to put the city on the global stage.

Chapter 4

Bilbao: a story of transformation

The location for this conference is almost as important as the issues being discussed over the three days. In Bilbao, regeneration has been deeply considered and executed in an effortless way across the city. Its own story of transformation comes from redevelopment initiatives combined with cutting-edge institutional structures and strong leadership models. Xabier Ochandiano, counsellor for economic development at Bilbao’s City Council, walks us through Bilbao’s transformation.

Chapter 5

Eindhoven: refugees and acceptance

Inclusion was a strong theme at this year’s edition of Build, from how to ensure access is the same for everyone to making sure there’s a real urban-growth strategy for each city. In Eindhoven, the story is similar: migrants and refugees have knocked at the city’s doors and the leader’s have been trying to adapt. More recently, the city has approved a new reception centre and it mostly comes down to the story of one man: Mpanzu Bamenga, a member of the City Council of Eindhoven.

Chapter 6

The Skillman Foundation: education as a vehicle for inclusion

There can’t be any sort of equity in our cities without considering education: it’s the best way to ensure change comes from within but also that this change will endure for generations to come. Tonya Allen, president and CEO of The Skillman Foundation, tells us how her organisation is promoting inclusion through education in Detroit.