6 O’Clock Sessions: Conserve or Destroy?

Is Heritage a Hindrance?

Is nostalgia stopping us from building a better tomorrow?

The UK is home to over 500,000 listed buildings, the majority of which were built before considerations of insulation, accessibility, or sustainability.

As we find ourselves in the middle of a housing crisis, with mounting pressure to reach targets pushed by the government, is our architectural heritage helping or holding us back? From protected façades and sash windows, to planning laws that pit conservation against contemporary design and modern needs; our built heritage can feel both like a treasure and a trap.

Yet heritage also offers opportunities in placemaking and brings social value to our cities. Historic England report that repurposing historic buildings could deliver 560,000-670,000 news homes. But how do we get there? Are we preserving places or just freezing them in time?

Join us to explore how heritage and innovation can co-exist. This is your chance to reimagine what “heritage” means in a climate-conscious, socially equitable future.

Can we honour the past without being ruled by it? If you care about how our buildings and cities shape the way we live, this conversation is for you.

6 O’Clock Sessions:

Imagine a place where public, politicians and professionals come together to debate the future of our cities. The 6 O’Clock Sessions are home to informed civic debate – topical discussion with a twist. These sessions are participatory in nature – different opinions are welcome, heard and respectfully challenged. Just the tonic for our polarised times. Everyone welcome. 

Speakers

• Pete Insole, Urban Design Team Manager, Bristol City Council
• Claire Humphreys, Conservation Architect, Shu Architects
• Simon Hickman, Heritage Director, Avalon Planning & Heritage
• Morwenna Slade, Director, Ingleton Wood
• Jayne Boldy, Senior Conservation Officer, B&NES Council

Location: The Architect | Wed 12 November | 6 pm

Ticket includes 1 x Gin + Tonic (or Alcohol-Free alternative)