Conference 2025

Oculus The Gateway Conference Centre, Gatehouse Rd, Aylesbury, HP19 8FF

We are pleased to announce our Conference for 2025 on the topic of Place Shaping. The concept of place shaping calls on us to shape our place, it’s an invitation to take charge of our local areas, to mould them into shapes that not only appeal to us, but also to those who visit or invest in our communities. It’s about re-imagining our surroundings and painting a new, vibrant picture of our area, it’s about creating spaces and environments that are better for everyone.

What’s Happening?

We will explore the narratives of ‘place’, the social and physical fabric of the communities in which people live, their collective experience of urban environments, high streets, town centres and rural areas. ‘Places’ are economies where we earn our living, communities where we relate to others, and the centrepiece of our identity and belonging.

What Is Place Shaping?

Shaping our Place Understanding your parish’s Unique Selling Proposition (USP) is vital in setting it apart from over 9,000 other alternatives. Mel Woof’s introduction to the concept of “Shaping your Place” underscores the necessity of identifying and effectively communicating what makes your parish exceptional. A compelling USP not only showcases the unique features and benefits of your parish but also aligns with the needs and desires of your residents, both existing and prospective. By emphasizing what makes your community special, from historical landmarks to vibrant local events, you can attract new families and strengthen the communal bond. Knowing your parish’s identity, offerings, and future direction enables you to share a cohesive and inspiring vision, fostering a thriving and unified community.

Shelter

The bones of our communities are intricately formed by a synergy of planning, design codes, economic or energy security, climate management, and biodiversity. Thoughtful urban planning ensures that spaces are functional, efficient, and conducive to social interaction. Design codes enforce aesthetic and structural standards that preserve a community’s character and safety. Economic and energy security provide the backbone for sustainable growth, ensuring that resources are managed wisely and communities are resilient against economic shocks and energy crises. Climate management is crucial in mitigating the adverse effects of global warming, with proactive measures to reduce carbon footprints and enhance environmental sustainability. Biodiversity enriches our ecosystems, promoting balance and resilience within natural habitats. Together, these elements create a robust framework that fosters thriving, sustainable, and harmonious communities.

Security

Security in place-shaping is a multifaceted concept that encompasses physical safety, economic stability, and structural integrity. At its core, it involves designing and managing environments in a way that mitigates risks and fosters a sense of safety and well-being among residents. Physical safety is addressed through measures such as effective urban planning, adequate lighting, surveillance systems, and emergency response strategies. Economic security is promoted by creating job opportunities, supporting local businesses, and ensuring access to essential services. Structural security ensures that buildings and infrastructure are resilient to natural disasters, wear and tear, and other potential hazards. By integrating these elements, place-shaping not only enhances the quality of life but also builds a resilient and thriving community.

Food

Food is a multifaceted entity, encompassing both physical sustenance and cultural significance. Its availability hinges on numerous factors, including geographical location, seasonal variations, and socio[1]economic conditions. The concept of “food miles” highlights the distance food travels from production to consumer, influencing its environmental impact and freshness. Choices in food can range from mass-produced items to artisanal products, which often emphasise quality, tradition, and local ingredients. Affordability remains a critical aspect, as it determines access to nutritious options for diverse populations. Ultimately, food is a complex interplay of physical necessity and cultural identity, shaped by global and local dynamics.

Warmth

Warmth in our communities extends beyond the physical shelter that provides protection from the elements; it also encompasses the emotional and social support that fosters a sense of belonging and security. When we consider the concept of “place,” it is essential to think of it holistically, recognizing the community’s role in nurturing individuals from cradle to grave. A supportive community offers more than just a physical space; it provides a network of care, mutual aid, and shared values that enhance the quality of life for all its members. This sense of belonging and connection is crucial for personal development, mental health, and overall well-being, making the warmth of a community an invaluable aspect of a fulfilling life