In recent years the notion of urban agriculture has been gaining increased currency. Triggered by concerns about food prices, food miles and the environment it is also a response to the desire to live healthier, more sustainable lives. Despite good intentions, large-scale examples, especially in the UK, are hard to find however recent initiatives such as London Food promise much.

This seminar will focus on what has, is and will be done to increase the integration of food production into the city, answering the questions:

  * Can we reduce our reliance on imported food?
  * Where is the investment going to come from?
  * How can we change consumer spending habits and promote fresh food?
  * Do we need to be at the brink of catastrophe before urban agriculture is widely implemented?

Speakers include:

Mark Brearley, Head of Design, Design for London and Jamie Dean, East London Green Grid

Carolyn Steel, architect and author of Hungry City: How Food Shapes Our Lives

Katrin Bohn & Andre Viljoen, Bohn & Viljoen Architects

Mikey Tompkins and Ruth Coulson, Urban Designer, Croydon Council on Central Croydon as an example of growing food closer to the urban consumer

And a representative from Sustain, the alliance for better food and farming

Chaired by David Barrie, urban consultant, project, design and media producer.

The Building Centre, London