Thriving Neighbourhoods is a conference on emerging approaches to the planning, design and management of local neighbourhoods that are set to radically improve health, social engagement, environmental quality and productivity in communities. 

Thriving communities have the resilience needed to adapt creatively to unexpected challenges such as climate change, population change, rapid technological change, social upheaval and economic crises.

The complexity of the systems involved in creating thriving communities poses difficult and challenging issues for planners, developers, managers and researchers.  But the potential returns on the invested effort and resources are massive. 

Capturing these returns requires professional collaboration across policy sectors including health, planning, design, infrastructure, IT and the built and natural environments.  Communities must also be engaged from the outset, recognising diverse cultural and individual needs.

About International Thriving Neighbourhoods 2012

"People around the world are developing local strategies not only to manage challenges like climate change, social tension and economic dislocation, but also to deliver better health, environment and quality of life for communities. Thriving Neighbourhoods 2012 will highlight what they've achieved at the local scale, through transformative thinking and practice."

12 - 14 November 2012

Martin Brennan

Conference Chair

CEO, ICLEI - Local Governments for  

 Sustainability - Oceania

Conference Host

Conference Partner

“Metropolis is pleased to be partnering with ICLEI on Thriving Neighbourhoods. The Conference will showcase international best

practice approaches to urban development and foster exchange of thinking on how local communities can thrive, while contributing to

global sustainability.”

Alain Le Saux

Secretary General

Metropolis

World Association of Major Metropolises

   Abstract submission now open

We invite papers and presentations related to the challenges of creating and supporting thriving neighbourhoods and communities.  

The diagram below sets the framework of the Conference Program and provides a guide for submissions.  Topics could be at any point in the diagram, covering the challenges; the processes underpinning change and development; the specifics of place; and the measurement of outcomes.

  Key dates

  2 April 2012:  Deadline for Abstracts (400 words) -

                         extended to 23 April 2012

  28 May 2012:  Abstracts acceptance notice

  More info