Our cities are extraordinary and complex and have the potential to be aesthetically pleasing, convenient, culturally rich and sustainable. From the earliest planning and site purchases through to completion and use, we need to examine design innovations in green technologies, structure, construction, environmental and building service. We need all of this couched in the wider context of local democracy and how governance and the political economy can drive the development of sustainable cities.

Water is a factor to consider when creating a sustainable city. Water sensitive cities can enhance and protect the health of rivers and wetlands, mitigate flood risk and damage, and create public spaces that harvest, clean and recycle water. Once again however, this requires complex planning and urban design solutions that address social, environmental, political, economic, planning and engineering challenges.