Connected Places

Connected Places is a podcast about the future of our towns, cities and transport systems. In each episode we speak to thought leaders, senior industry figures, innovators and businesses from around the world about the new technologies that are shaping the places of tomorrow. Connected Places is brought to you by the Connected Places Catapult - the UK's innovation accelerator for cities, transport and places. We help to connect businesses and public sector leaders to cutting-edge research and new technologies that can spark innovation and grow new markets. For more information about the work the Catapult is doing to support businesses large and small, visit our website and subscribe to our newsletter at: www.cp.catapult.org.uk

The future of innovation procurement 06/27/2024

The future of innovation procurement Every year the UK spends £380bn on third party suppliers - £60bn of that is spent by local authorities - so it is vital to ensure we are getting the best value from the goods and services we buy. A big part of any public budget is not just the question of what things to buy, but how can we be more creative in how we buy, especially when it comes to innovation. So, in this episode we want to revisit what’s happening in the world of public procurement, and what’s being done to not only improve the UK’s procurement landscape, but also make it more innovation-friendly. We were recently up in Leeds at UKREiiF – the UK’s Real Estate Investment & Infrastructure Forum – where we hosted a panel on the future of innovation procurement. We were joined by , Chair of the UK Innovation District Group, , Chief Executive of , and the Catapult’s own , Head of the Innovation Procurement Empowerment Centre. Theme music on this episode is by Phill Ward Music () SHOW NOTES: Applications for the SES Awards are open until 31 July 2024. Interested organisations are invited to submit their programs and initiatives for consideration . You can learn more about the work of the a new partnership created to inspire, upskill and empower public authorities in innovation-friendly procurement procedures. You can also learn more about what the UK Government is doing to improve our public procurement regime by visiting the where you can find webinars, factsheets, summary guides and even a checklist to help prepare for when the new rules come into force. To find out more about the work of Bloom, a professional services facilitator specialising in public procurement, to learn more about ‘NEPRO BloomSustain’. If you'd like to get in touch with your feedback, comments and suggestions on what you'd like to hear more of on Connected Places, please email: . We’re looking forward to hearing from you! To find out more about what we do at the Connected Places Catapult and to hear about the latest news, events and announcements, visit cp.catapult.org.uk and do sign up to our newsletter! /episode/index/show/connectedplaces/id/31911342

Inclusive Innovation in the West Midlands 04/18/2024

Highlights from the Connected Places Summit - 2024 03/28/2024

Minding the gaps in London with Graeme Craig 03/07/2024

In conversation with Baroness Brown of Cambridge 01/25/2024

In conversation with Baroness Brown of Cambridge In this episode we meet member of the House of Lords and an engineer by training. We talked about the UK Government’s ambition to become a science and technology superpower by 2030; what it’s like to straddle the worlds of academia, industry, and government; the role that data and digital has to play in making our national infrastructure more resilient; and how alloys in aeroplane engines react under extreme pressure! Julia began her academic career by studying metals, and the composite structures used in wind turbines. Her specialty was designing metal alloys that are resistant to cracks under pressure. Over the years she went on to teaching positions at the Universities of Nottingham and Cambridge, as well as senior positions at Rolls Royce, the Institute of Physics, Imperial College, and she also served as Vice-Chancellor of Aston University. In 2007 Julia was appointed by Gordon Brown to lead the King Review, which looked at a route to decarbonising a major segment of the transport sector within 25 years, making an important contribution to the UK's plans to try and achieve Net Zero. Julia then became a crossbench member of the House of Lords in 2015 and is now the chair of its Science and Technology Committee, which is holding the government to account on its promise to make the UK a science superpower by 2030. Theme music on this episode is by Phill Ward Music () To register for our inaugural Connected Places Summit, being held in London on 20-21 March 2024, . To learn more about the Climate Resilience Demonstrator (CReDO), the digital twin for climate change adaptation that is mentioned in the episode, . Also, learn more about the Digital Twin Hub which is hosted at the Catapult by . To find out more about what we do at the Connected Places Catapult and to hear about the latest news, events and announcements, visit and do sign up to our newsletter! /episode/index/show/connectedplaces/id/29642658

2023 - A Year In Review 12/13/2023

Meet the Innovators 11/28/2023

Reimagining national infrastructure with Sir John Armitt 10/05/2023

Reimagining national infrastructure with Sir John Armitt The future of Britain’s national infrastructure is getting a lot of attention. In large part because it’s facing some big challenges. Not least our changing climate and the commitment to decarbonise our economy. But also the question of who pays for it, who benefits from it, and who gets to contribute to the decision-making process about its future. There are also the opportunities that new technologies bring to improve the way we design, build and operate our infrastructure – from transport and energy, flooding and waste management, digital and data, to protecting our biodiversity and the wider natural environment. In this episode we’re delighted to have on the show someone who spends a lot of time thinking about all of this; Sir John Armitt, the Chair of the UK’s The Commission’s job is to provide the UK Government with impartial, expert advice on major long term infrastructure challenges. Later this month the NIC will publish its second National Infrastructure Assessment (NIA). The last one was published 5 years ago in 2018. This year’s NIA will focus on three strategic priorities for the UK’s national infrastructure: Reaching net zero by 2050 Reducing environmental impacts and adapting to a changing climate Supporting levelling up and creating sustainable economic growth across all regions of the UK. Sir John and his team recently visited the Catapult and he kindly agreed to an interview with our Chair, They explored a number of key questions: How can innovation and technology and optimise existing infrastructure? Where are the business opportunities in responding to climate resilience, net zero and decarbonisation? Why is procurement, or ‘smarter spending’, so important for making investment go further? What is the role of enlightened leadership at the local level – how important are sub-national bodies at the city and regional level in driving the change we need? What does the future hold for the UK’s national infrastructure? Theme music on this episode is by Phill Ward Music () Show notes: To learn more about the NIC and the upcoming Nation Infrastructure Assessment to be published on 18th October 2023, . To register for our inaugural Connected Places Summit, being held in London on 20-21 March 2024, . To find out more about what we do at the Connected Places Catapult and to hear about the latest news, events and announcements, visit and do sign up to our newsletter! Follow the show! Don’t forget to subscribe to the show on iTunes, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. Please also take a moment to write a review and rate us so that more people can hear about the podcast and what we do at Connected Places Catapult. /episode/index/show/connectedplaces/id/28215965

How are tech innovators making flying more accessible? 10/02/2023

The power of digital twins with IOTICS 09/14/2023

The power of digital twins with IOTICS We conclude our three-part podcast series on digital twins with a conversation with Head of Engagement at , a data company helping innovators to better collaborate on digital transformation. Ali and his colleagues are passionate about this. They’re impatient too! IOTICS are on a mission to empower those dedicated to making a meaningful impact on our world. They’re providing the tools to navigate the intricate landscape of data and information, enabling companies to unlock valuable insights and share data and information better. So in this episode we invited Ali into our studio to tell us about some of the organisations that IOTICS are working to create a greener and more sustainable future. Ali explains some of the complexities of data sharing between companies, and the importance of making sure digital twin technologies have the real-world impact when it comes to some of society’s greatest challenges. The voices in this episode are also featuring on , where Ali has interviewed a number of fascinating guests to showcase the growing significance of digital twins in shaping our connected future. Featured in this episode are , Environmental and Sustainability Coordinator at ; , Services Programmes Director at ; , Global Digital Twin Leader at ; , Head of Data at ; and , a Data and Analytics Leader in the Government and Public sector. Connected Digital Twins Summit – 22 June, 2023 The huge opportunity that digital twins offer place-based infrastructure is what guides the work of the Digital Twin Hub (which came out of the UK’s National Digital Twin Programme) housed at the Connected Places Catapult. It is a network that is helping to bring people together to learn from each other and collaborate on this hugely ambitious social, environment, and technical journey. Their work is also guided by the Gemini Principles which are shaping the development of an ecosystem of connected digital twins. And they also host the weekly Gemini Call which has become a staple date in the diary for practitioners across the UK. On 22 June 2023 the Digital Twin Hub and the Connected Places Catapult hosted the inaugural Connected Digital Twins Summit. IOTICS is an active supporter of the Hub and was a sponsor of the Summit. /episode/index/show/connectedplaces/id/28019427

The power of digital twins with National Grid ESO 08/07/2023

The power of digital twins with National Grid ESO In this episode we meet , the electricity system operator for Great Britain, and one of the sponsors of the inaugural Connected Digital Twins Summit held this summer. The UK Government has a target for National Grid ESO to be running a zero-carbon electricity system by 2035. This ambition is crucial in helping the UK meet its wider zero carbon targets. For National Grid ESO, a major milestone in that journey is the development of a Virtual Energy System. This is a real-time, digital replica of Great Britain’s entire energy landscape which mirrors the physical system - a network of interconnected digital twins that can be shared by industry to improve ESO’s ability to simulate and forecast electricity supply and demand. So how is digital twin technology helping to bring this bold vision to life? How is it being used to better understand and influence consumer behaviour, especially during a cost-of-living crisis? And is the tech always the biggest hurdle when it comes to digital transformation? Featured in this episode are , National Grid ESO’s Head of Innovation Strategy & Digitalisation in conversation with , Chair of the Digital Twin Hub, as well as , CEO of , and , Smart Grid Director at . Connected Digital Twins Summit – 22 June, 2023 The huge opportunity that digital twins offer place-based infrastructure is what guides the work of the Digital Twin Hub (which came out of the UK’s National Digital Twin Programme) housed at the Connected Places Catapult. It is a network that is helping to bring people together to learn from each other and collaborate on this hugely ambitious social, environment, and technical journey. Their work is also guided by the Gemini Principles which are shaping the development of an ecosystem of connected digital twins. And they also host the weekly Gemini Call which has become a staple date in the diary for practitioners across the UK. On 22 June 2023 the Digital Twin Hub and the Connected Places Catapult hosted the inaugural Connected Digital Twins Summit. National Grid ESO is an active supporter of the Hub and was a sponsor of the Summit. Theme music on this episode is by Phill Ward Music () Show notes: Centre for Net Zero is an impact-driven research unit founded by the global tech disruptor, Octopus Energy. They deliver pioneering research to make the future energy system a reality. Their access to tens of billions of customer data points gives them an unparalleled insight into the behaviours of people and businesses around the world. They combine analysis of this dataset with field trials and experimentation, to build models and centre intelligent demand into the design of the changing energy system. Centre for New Zero works directly with governments, policy-makers, grid operators and academics, translating their research and analysis into real-world action. Find out more at centrefornetzero.org To find out more about what we do at the Connected Places Catapult and to hear about the latest news, events and announcements, visit cp.catapult.org.uk and do sign up to our newsletter! Follow the show! Don’t forget to subscribe to the show on iTunes, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. Please also take a moment to write a review and rate us so that more people can hear about the podcast and what we do at Connected Places Catapult. /episode/index/show/connectedplaces/id/27656760

The future of Britain's railways with Lord Adonis 07/20/2023

The future of Britain's railways with Lord Adonis In this episode we meet Lord Adonis who we were delighted to welcome to our offices last week alongside senior representatives from across the rail sector. Andrew Adonis is a member of the House of Lords and founding Chair of the UK’s National Infrastructure Commission. He was a Government Minister in Tony Blair’s government, and went on to become Secretary of State for Transport under Gordon Brown. So his reflections on where we’ve come in Britain when it comes to rail travel, and what we need to be thinking about in the future draw on a wide range of personal experience. Lord Adonis was closely involved with setting up HS2 when it was just a small start-up. He also played a leading role in bringing Crossrail to London – one of the most ambitious infrastructure projects the capital has ever delivered. Music on this episode is by Phill Ward Music () Show notes: If you would like to hear more about the themes that Lord Adonis discusses listen to our feature episode “” where we explore how innovation and new technologies are shaping the future of the rail industry as it rises to the huge challenges the 21st Century is throwing at it. You can also listen to our interview with the broadcaster and former MP, Michael Portillo about Britain’s railway history and what the future might look like – . To learn more about the UK’s first ‘Station Innovation Zone’ and how the Catapult is supporting Bristol Temple Meads station to trial new technologies, . If you'd like to get in touch with your feedback, comments and suggestions on what you'd like to hear more of on Connected Places, please email: . We’re looking forward to hearing from you! Follow the show! Don’t forget to subscribe to the show on iTunes, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. Please also take a moment to write a review and rate us so that more people can hear about the podcast and what we do at Connected Places Catapult. /episode/index/show/connectedplaces/id/27518376

The power of digital twins with Royal HaskoningDHV 06/22/2023

The power of digital twins with Royal HaskoningDHV A profound shift is happening in the world of infrastructure. Advances in software, sensing and computational technology are seeing connected digital twins being adopted across whole infrastructure systems and even entire cities. In this episode we meet the global engineering consultancy event podcast partner for the inaugural Connected Digital Twins Summit, 22 June 2023 (see below for event details). RHDHV are helping their clients rise to the challenges of resiliency, sustainability, and digital transformation. One of the key technologies that is enabling this change is the place-based digital twin. We explore how RHDHV’s digital twin services are helping Bacton Beach in Norfolk tackle coastal erosion through a hugely ambitious sandscaping project. We meet the rail startup, East West Rail that is applying digital twin technology to a new railway connecting Oxford and Cambridge. And we visit the Dutch province of Limburg where RHDHV’s AquaSuite software is using digital twin technology to improve the processing of 150m3 wastewater across a vast infrastructure network. Featured in this episode are , Director of Business Transformation at RHDHV; , Leading Professional – Digital Twin at RHDHV; , Coastal Transition Manager, ; , Head of Digital Engineering at ; and , Sales Leader – AquaSuite, RHDHV. Connected Digital Twins Summit – 22 June, 2023 The huge opportunity that digital twins offer place-based infrastructure is what guides the work of the Digital Twin Hub (which came out of the UK’s National Digital Twin Programme) housed at the Connected Places Catapult. It is a network that is helping to bring people together to learn from each other and collaborate on this hugely ambitious social, environment, and technical journey. On 22 June 2023 the Digital Twin Hub and the Connected Places Catapult hosted the inaugural Connected Digital Twins Summit. Royal HaskoningDHV is an active supporter of the Hub and was event podcast partner for the Summit. Theme music on this episode is by Phill Ward Music () SHOW NOTES For a list of resources about the work of Royal HaskoningDHV and their digital twin services, see below links. RHDHV websites Royal HaskoningDHV (corporate overview), . Twinn, by Royal HaskoningDHV, . RHDHV videos The Story of a Digital Twin, click here. Starting your Digital Twin Journey, click here. Twinn Witness Predictive Simulation Software for Better Decision Making, click here. Connect your data models to live data | Machine Learning, . RHDHV case studies featured in podcast Sandscaping on Bacton Beach with North Norfolk Council, . Improving wastewater treatment with WBL, . Latest RHDHV White Paper Simplifying Complexity: 3 ways industrial companies can drive value from digital twins, . ***** To learn more about the Digital Twin Hub and how you can become a member, . /episode/index/show/connectedplaces/id/27222984

What next for innovation-friendly procurement? 05/30/2023

What next for innovation-friendly procurement? Money is tight right now and tough times call for a renewed focus on how public money is spent. Every year the UK spends £300bn on third party suppliers so it is vital to ensure we are getting the best value from the goods and services we buy. A big part of any public budget is not just the question of what things to buy, but the process of agreeing the terms and procedures for acquiring them. The technical term is public procurement. So, in this episode we’re going to have a brief look at what’s happening in the world of public procurement, or smarter spending, and what’s being done to not only improve the UK’s procurement regime, but also make it more innovation-friendly. We hear from , Head of Head of Strategic Relations, Procurement Reform at the Cabinet Office who’s working on the UK’s Government’s new Transforming Public Procurement Bill. We meet , Co-Founder and CEO of , a 3C sensing software company at the coalface of innovating in the transport sector. And we also hear from the Catapult’s Ecosystem Director for Place Leadership, . Theme music on this episode is by Phill Ward Music () Show notes: Our has a range of case studies, playbooks for professionals, and an e-learning module that we've produced in collaboration with Open and Agile Smart Cities. You can also learn about the work of the a new partnership created to inspire, upskill and empower public authorities in innovation-friendly procurement procedures. You can also learn more about what the UK Government is doing to improve our publice procurement regime by visiting the where you can find webinars, factsheets, summary guides and even a checklist to help prepare for when the new rules come into force. If you'd like to get in touch with your feedback, comments and suggestions on what you'd like to hear more of on Connected Places, please email: [email protected]. We’re looking forward to hearing from you! To find out more about what we do at the Connected Places Catapult and to hear about the latest news, events and announcements, visit cp.catapult.org.uk and do sign up to our newsletter! Follow the show! Don’t forget to subscribe to the show on iTunes, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. Please also take a moment to write a review and rate us so that more people can hear about the podcast and what we do at Connected Places Catapult. /episode/index/show/connectedplaces/id/26990028

Bristol’s Station Innovation Zone Part II – Meet the companies 04/20/2023

Bristol’s Station Innovation Zone Part II – Meet the companies Bristol Temple Meads recently became the UK’s first ‘Station Innovation Zone’. Working in partnership with Network Rail and Innovate UK we’re helping the station to test new technologies designed to improve the passenger experience the station. In this episode we meet three innovators from the three companies who will be live trialling their solutions in the station over the coming months; from , from Jnction and from Workfromhub. What are the exciting new products that they’ll be developing at Temple Meads, how could they make a difference for the travelling public, and what does success look like at the end of the trail phase? We also hear from one of the Catapult’s SME Accelerator Programme Managers, , and our Ecosystem Director for Rail & Stations, Theme music on this episode is by Phill Ward Music () Show notes: To read our full announcement about Bristol Temple Meads becoming the UK’s first Station Innovation Zone, . The trio of firms – Createc, Jnction and WorkfromHub – have been chosen as part of the Station Innovation Zone programme that aims to test new ways of improving the rail passenger experience. offers a LIDAR based crowd monitoring system called Situate which uses artificial intelligence to alert operators to incidents in real time and warn of concerning activity. A single sensor can cover large distances and be alert to people running or standing too close to the platform edge. has developed a passenger assistance app known as Aubin designed to help neurodiverse passengers and others who may find travel difficult. It provides journey information, accessible station detail and direct communication with carers and customer experience staff. looks to install a remote workspace pod at the station which is bookable via a dedicated app. The remote workspace offers a quiet and private space to enable people to join a virtual meeting or get some deep work done during their time at the Station. To learn more about all nine companies that showcased their solutions to Network Rail at Bristol Temple Meads, (this article includes links to the websites of all nine companies). You can also catch up on some of our other rail-themed episodes by clicking on the below links: If you'd like to get in touch with your feedback, comments and suggestions on what you'd like to hear more of on Connected Places, please email: [email protected]. We’re looking forward to hearing from you! To find out more about what we do at the Connected Places Catapult and to hear about the latest news, events and announcements, visit cp.catapult.org.uk and do sign up to our newsletter! Follow the show! Don’t forget to subscribe to the show on iTunes, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. Please also take a moment to write a review and rate us so that more people can hear about the podcast and what we do at Connected Places Catapult. /episode/index/show/connectedplaces/id/26590341

Bristol Temple Meads - UK’s first Station Innovation Zone 03/29/2023

Glasgow Airport - UK’s first connected airport living lab 02/23/2023

2022 - A Year In Review 12/19/2022

The Growing Momentum Behind 3Ci 12/08/2022

The Growing Momentum Behind 3Ci The fight against climate change will be won or lost in cities. We’ve known this for some time. The question is, What do cities need to do financially to rise to that challenge? How can they strengthen their business cases for net zero investment? And if their plans are brought together and aligned in a new and creative ways, could they generate greater scale, volume and predictability in ways that might make them more attractive to investors? To answer this, the Connected Places Catapult has teamed up with the UK’s and to create the UK Cities Commission for Climate Investment, or . The aim is to the leverage the combined scale and clout of the UK’s cities to mobilise investment into low and net-zero carbon projects across all of the UK’s largest cities, not just individual ones. 3Ci was launched in the lead up to COP26 in Glasgow in 2021, so in this episode we hear about the momentum that’s been growing behind 3Ci over the last year. We hear how the UK’s cities have started having a closer, more collaborative conversation with banks, pension funds and private investors. We hear from: Cllr Susan Aitkin, Leader of , Mayor of Cllr Georgia Gould, Leader of Camden Council and Chair of , , Managing Director and Head of Regional Development, , Group Social Impact & Invesment Director, , Assistant Director (Government & Infrastructure), , Executive Director, , CEO of , The 3Ci partnership is now widening to include Metro Mayors, Combined Authorities, Scottish and Key Cities, Counties and Districts and a growing number of private investors, financiers, advisors, developers and built environment technology professionals. Innovate UK has also been providing core funding for 3Ci and the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) is providing programme support. Theme music on this episode is by Phill Ward Music () /episode/index/show/connectedplaces/id/25264884

Great rail journeys of the future with Michael Portillo 11/03/2022

Great rail journeys of the future with Michael Portillo Michael Portillo’s Great Railway Journeys have captured the imaginations of millions of TV viewers as he explores the vast world of rail travel, its fascinating history, and what it can reveal about a country. In this episode Michael shares his thoughts on how far we’ve come in Britain when it comes to our railways, and what we need to be thinking about in the future. As well as a broadcaster and film maker, Michael is also a former Member of Parliament. Throughout the 80’s and 90’s he held a number of senior Ministerial roles in the Governments of Margaret Thatcher and John Major, including Minister of State for Transport. Looking back on his time in government, as well as his travels and film making adventures, he reflects on how the rail industry has changed over time, the political obstacles that have held Britain back, and what our priorities should be now. This episode is the full interview with Michael, excerpts of which were included in our previous feature on “Reimagining our railways and stations”. In that episode we explored how innovation and new technologies are shaping the future of the rail industry as it rises to the huge challenges the 21st Century is throwing at it. Like the disruption of a global pandemic, the need to decarbonise our economy, the march of digital technology, and the importance of putting people and the passenger experience at the heart of all of that. Music on this episode is by Phill Ward Music () Show notes: To learn more about the UK’s first ‘Station Innovation Zone’ and how the Catapult is supporting Bristol Temple Meads station to trial new technologies, . And if you’re interested in applying for our Station Innovation Zone Competition – we're looking for up to 10 innovators with technology, products or services which can improve passenger experience when travelling through stations – then . If you'd like to get in touch with your feedback, comments and suggestions on what you'd like to hear more of on Connected Places, please email: . We’re looking forward to hearing from you! Follow the show! Don’t forget to subscribe to the show on iTunes, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. Please also take a moment to write a review and rate us so that more people can hear about the podcast and what we do at Connected Places Catapult. /episode/index/show/connectedplaces/id/24840048

Reimagining our railways and stations 10/20/2022

Reimagining our railways and stations Britain has the oldest rail infrastructure in the world. Our railways have profoundly shaped our history, as well as much of our cultural and civic identity. But like much of our economy, the UK’s rail network has had a difficult few years; reduced passenger revenue in the wake of the COVID pandemic; changing commuting patterns; waves of industrial action; and throughout it all the need to modernise some very old infrastructure. And then of course, there are the daunting challenges that the 21st Century are throwing at it. The need to decarbonise our economy, the march of digital technology on the modernisation journey, and the importance of putting people and the passenger experience at the heart of all of that. Historically the rail industry has a long track record of changing and adapting to society’s needs. At its heart, rail is an industry that was forged in innovation and creativity. Yet despite its pioneering history, the modern rail industry can still be a difficult space to innovate in. In this episode we’ll hear how innovation is helping the sector to rediscover its creativity in becoming a more cost-effective, accessible, sustainable and enjoyable form of travel. We begin our journey with one of Britain's most well-known champions for railways, former MP and Government Minister, Michale Portillo. Along the way we also meet some of the innovators who are helping to write a new story for rail; like Nicolas LeGlatin, from Open Space, a company specialising in digital twins in stations; Steve Erdal from WordNerds, a specialist in language analytics and customer experience; Matteo Maccario whose company Pluvo is revolutionising air quality in stations. We also hear from Mike Bradley, an expert in inclusive design at the University of Cambridge, Kirstin Durie, Property Development Manager at Network Rail, Daisy Chapman-Chamberlain from the Knowledge Transfer Network, and Alan Peters, our very own Ecosystem Director for Rail & Stations Music on this episode is by Phil Ward Music ( Show Notes To learn more about the UK's first Station Innovation Zone and how the Catapult is supporting Bristol Temple Meads station to trial new technologies, . And if you're interested in applying for our Station Innovation Zone Competition - we're looking for up to 10 companies with technology, products or services that can improve passenger experience when travelling through stations - then /episode/index/show/connectedplaces/id/24744606

Reimagining the future of aviation & airports 08/25/2022

Reimagining the future of aviation & airports The Wright brothers first took to the air in 1903. That revolution started with the propellor engine. Only a few decades later the jet age began, and since then aviation has become an absolutely vital part of the global economy, as well as the lives of millions of people. But what’s really interesting is that our experience of flight - the kind of aircraft we fly in, the routes they take through our airspace, where we need to go in order to get on a plane, and how the airborne goods that we buy to get to us – that hasn’t changed very much over the decades. Yet it’s starting to change now. The next chapter in the story of flight will look very different to the story that unfolded over the last century. And this has huge implications for how we think about places such as airports, new modes of flight like electric vehicle take-off and landing or air taxis, electric and hydrogen powered planes, and what sustainable flight looks like as we transition to net zero. So in this episode, we turn our attention to the future aviation; to the airports, airlines and aeronautical technologies that have been taking us to the skies, and connected us to the wider world, and to each other, for over a century. What is the next century going to look like? We also meet some of the innovators and industry leaders who are writing that new aviation story, like Captain David Morgan, Interim Chief Operating Officer at easyJet, Prof. Sarah Sharples, Chief Scientific Adviser for the Department for Transport, Arnab Chatterjee, VP - Infrastructure at Zero Avia, Michael Cervenka, President of Vertical Aerospace, Simon Earles, Director of Sustainability & Corporate Affairs at Bristol Airport, and Gary Cutts, Challenge Director at the Future Flight Challenge, and Katy Milne, former Head of Industrial Strategy at Fly Zero. And, of course, we hear from the Catapult’s Chief Operating Officer, Rachel Gardner-Poole, as well as our Technology Innovation Leads for Aviation, Andrew Chadwick. Music on this episode is by Phill Ward Music (www.phillward.com) ***** Show notes: If you would like to apply to be part of our Future of Air Mobility Accelerator Programme, you have until 11 September to do so. For more information, To find out more about our Zero Emissions Flight Infrastructure Blueprint, , as well as our ZEFI White Paper, . To learn more about 11 SMEs that we’ve been supporting as part of the Future Flight Challenge, . To learn more about the ‘third revolution of flight’ check out a fascinating feature article in our Connected Place Magazine, in which aviation journalist Ben Griffiths looks into aviation’s crystal ball – . You can also learn more about how are being deployed in the , , , , as well as the You can also access the repository of reports produced by the Fly Zero project, . To download our report on Hubs of Innovation, , and you can also read our playbook for place leaders by . If you'd like to get in touch with your feedback, comments and suggestions on what you'd like to hear more of on Connected Places, please email: [email protected]. We’re looking forward to hearing from you! Follow the show! Don’t forget to subscribe to the show on iTunes, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. Please also take a moment to write a review and rate us so that more people can hear about the podcast and what we do at Connected Places Catapult. /episode/index/show/connectedplaces/id/24152421

Our maritime past and future with David Shukman 07/21/2022

Our maritime past and future with David Shukman In this episode, we meet David Shukman, former BBC Science Editor. For over 30 years David has been reporting from all over the globe on the profound changes that are happening in our environment, our seas, and the wider natural world. Having started his career with the BBC in 1983, he was appointed the BBC’s first science editor in 2012, a position he held until stepping down at the end of COP26 in Glasgow. David has some fascinating stories to share from his time as a science reporter, and he’s also thought a lot about the future of the world’s oceans and the profound changes and innovations we’re witnessing here in Britain. This episode is the full interview with David, who briefly appeared on our recent episode on the future of the UK’s ports (episode 45). In that episode we explored the innovation that’s happening the UK’s maritime economy, the role of ports as a powerful engine of regional growth and a potential gateway to new global markets and routes to foreign direct investment. We also heard from some of the innovators and port operators who are writing a new maritime story in Britain, like Bob Sanguinetti, CEO of Aberdeen Harbour and Nolan Gray, Freeport Director at Tees Valley Combined Authority. We heard from Anna Ziou, Policy Director at the UK Chamber of Shipping, as well as Mark Wharton and Sophie Peachy from IOTICS, a UK company specialising in data and digital twin technology. Music on this episode is by Phill Ward Music (www.phillward.com) If you'd like to get in touch with your feedback, comments and suggestions on what you'd like to hear more of on Connected Places, please email: [email protected]. We’re looking forward to hearing from you! Follow the show! Don’t forget to subscribe to the show on iTunes, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. Please also take a moment to write a review and rate us so that more people can hear about the podcast and what we do at Connected Places Catapult. /episode/index/show/connectedplaces/id/23807201

Reimagining the UK’s ports and maritime economy 05/25/2022

Reimagining the UK’s ports and maritime economy The United Kingdom is a maritime nation. Our ports have long been hubs connecting Britain to the rest of the world. Yet if we think of ports as under-utilised hubs of innovation, things start to get exciting! Whether it’s 5G, autonomous systems, or net zero infrastructure, our ports can foster diverse innovation ecosystems. They can also be powerful engines of regional growth, as well as gateways to new global markets and routes to foreign direct investment. With the right vision and imagination, we have the tools and capabilities to write a new and exciting chapter in Britain’s maritime story. This episode features a special guest, David Shukman, the BBC’s former Science Editor, who’s reported from around the world on climate change and the environment for 30 years. We also meet some of the innovators and port operators who are writing that new maritime story, like Bob Sanguinetti, CEO of Aberdeen Harbour and Nolan Gray, Freeport Director at Tees Valley Combined Authority. We hear from Anna Ziou, Policy Director at the UK Chamber of Shipping, as well as Mark Wharton and Sophie Peachy from IOTICS, a UK company specialising in data and digital twin technology. Music on this episode is by Blue Dot Sessions and Phill Ward Music (www.phillward.com) Show notes: To find out more about our Clean Maritime Demonstrator project in Aberdeen, . To learn more about our work on the future of the UK’s Freeports, . To learn about how our ports are increasing being seen as hubs of clean energy and innovation, . To download our report on Hubs of Innovation, , and you can also read our playbook for place leaders by . And to register for the Maritime Innovation Week, which the Catapult is participating in as part of London Innovation Week from 13th-17th June, . If you'd like to get in touch with your feedback, comments and suggestions on what you'd like to hear more of on Connected Places, please email: We’re looking forward to hearing from you! Follow the show! Don’t forget to subscribe to the show on iTunes, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. Please also take a moment to write a review and rate us so that more people can hear about the podcast and what we do at Connected Places Catapult. /episode/index/show/connectedplaces/id/23230004

De-industrial to de-carbon: the future of our built environment with Liz Peace CBE 04/13/2022

De-industrial to de-carbon: the future of our built environment with Liz Peace CBE The UK has a powerful story to tell when it comes to regenerating our towns and cities in the wake of industrial decline. We haven’t always got it right, and yet we’ve learned a lot along the way. So as we face the daunting task of decarbonising our entire built environment, what lessons can we glean from the real estate and property sectors? What does the road ahead look like in this current moment of profound disruption? And where might the opportunities lie for investment in new technologies and the connected places of tomorrow? Our guest on this episode is Liz Peace CBE, who has 35 years’ experience in government and the property sector. Liz spent her early career in the Ministry of Defence before moving into the property sector and becoming Chief Executive of the British Property Federation (BPF). Liz retired from the BPF at the end of 2014. Among many other roles, she Chairs the Architectural Heritage Fund and Real Estate Balance - the property industry’s leading diversity organisation - as well as the Old Oak and Park Royal Development Corporation, and the Sponsor Board for the Palace of Westminster Restoration and Renewal Programme. She also serves as a non-executive Board Member at the Connected Places Catapult. Music on this episode is by Blue Dot Sessions and Phill Ward Music () Show notes: To register for our Integrated Place Planning for Net Zero event on 11 May, . To be part of our inaugural Connected Skies event at the British Science Museum in London, on 17/18th May, . If you'd like to get in touch with your feedback, comments and suggestions on what you'd like to hear more of on Connected Places, please email: . We’re looking forward to hearing from you! To find out more about what we do at the Connected Places Catapult and to hear about the latest news, events and announcements, please sign up to our newsletter! Follow the show! Don’t forget to subscribe to the show on iTunes, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. Please also take a moment to write a review and rate us so that more people can hear about the podcast and what we do at Connected Places Catapult. /episode/index/show/connectedplaces/id/22768955

How are two companies in Sao Paulo and Cambridge tackling climate change in Brazil? 03/24/2022

How are tech innovators making it easier for people with disabilities to use public transport? 01/27/2022

How are tech innovators making it easier for people with disabilities to use public transport? Are you one of the 14 million people in the UK with some form of disability? Or do you know someone who lives with a disability? Then you’ll probably know how hard it can be to use public transport - whether it’s getting on and off a bus, or navigating the complex, stressful and often-confusing environment of a train station. We’re working with innovators to find solutions that will make it easier for people to live active lives. In this episode of the Connected Places Podcast we speak to some of those innovators about how artificial intelligence, gaming and sensing technology is revolutionising how we get from A to B. It’s all part of the UK Government’s Inclusive Transport Strategy and the Department for Transport (DfT) is working with technology companies to help find the products and services that could make a real difference in people’s lives by removing barriers to travel for people with additional needs. One of the programmes it’s using is called a Transport Research and Innovation Grant (TRIG). It’s a way of funding proof of concept research projects that are all about not just improving the UK’s transport system, but helping to grow businesses and the wider economy. And the Catapult’s role in this? As part of our strategic partnership with DfT we’re providing wrap around support to government and business, to make sure that the good ideas that come out of these grants don’t fail for the wrong reasons. In this episode we meet some of the companies who participated in the 2021 Accessibility TRIG (formally known as A-TRIG) and what they got out of the programme. We speak to Chris Thompson, CEO of You.Smart.Thing, Fredi Nonyelu, CEO of Brite Yellow, Mark Robinson, Founder of Chrome Angel, as well as Christine Hemphill, Managing Director of the inclusive research consultancy, Open Inclusion, and the Catapult’s SME Development Programme Lead, Rebecca Goulding. Music on this episode is by Blue Dot Sessions and Phill Ward Music () Show notes: If you'd like to get in touch with your feedback, comments and suggestions on what you'd like to hear more of on Connected Places, please email: . We’re looking forward to hearing from you! To find out more about what we do at the Connected Places Catapult and to hear about the latest news, events and announcements, please sign up to our newsletter! Follow the show! Don’t forget to subscribe to the show on iTunes, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. Please also take a moment to write a review and rate us so that more people can hear about the podcast and what we do at Connected Places Catapult. /episode/index/show/connectedplaces/id/21916220

2021 - A Year In Review 12/21/2021

Rewilding conversations about place with Claudette Forbes 12/10/2021

Decarbonising the infrastructure of tomorrow with Dr. Nelson Ogunshakin OBE 12/02/2021

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