Greg Clark’s Expo diary: Europe’s leading cities gather in Munich

City expert Greg Clark outlines the topics of discussion during two sessions he is moderating on urban development at EXPO REAL.

On Monday and Tuesday morning from 10.00 to 13.30 in the Networking Lounge at Hall A1, EXPO REAL will play host to many of Europe’s leading cities as we debate the drivers of change for cities and the future urban development in land use, infrastructure, property investment and regeneration. Fifteen cities will participate, with senior officials debating six great drivers of change in the urban environment.

First, with London, Zurich, Amsterdam and Edinburgh we will debate the future shape and size of Europe’s financial centres. What are their roles, specialisations and future size after the crisis, and in the new global system? Next, with Helsinki, Glasgow, Munich, and London we focus on the growth and development of the knowledge economy and ask what implications there are for infrastructure, property, and real estate investment?

The third session looks at the growing role of airports as hubs for new investment with Paris, Manchester, Munich, and Amsterdam. Does Europe start to see airport developments that can become aerotropolis? Are airports the new city centres and science parks?

On Tuesday our programme begins with Rotterdam, Oslo, Barcelona, and Cardiff debating the future of port cities. Has the new wave of globalisation given rise to growth in our ports? How is port redevelopment and regeneration succeeding when the harbour moves its location?

Our second theme sees Birmingham, Barcelona, and Glasgow debating the future role of retail and city centres. Has the internet revolution made retailing more difficult for cities, or just changed the nature of the offer required to compete? What is the future for city centre shopping and retail property? Our final session brings together Turin, Manchester, Barcelona, Cardiff, and Glasgow to discuss the growing role of sport-related development.

Greg Clark is owner and CEO of The Business of Cities Ltd in London