Professor Trevor Davies has over 50 years’ experience studying atmospheric science and climate issues, his appointment comes amidst growing public support for a ‘green recovery’ post-pandemic. Urban Catalyst will use his experience to create sustainable developments that promote healthy living.
He has been Director of the Climatic Research Unit at the University of East Anglia (UEA) and was a driving force behind the establishment of the Tyndall Centre for Climate Change Research where he was Director of International Development. The Tyndall Centre is headquartered at UEA, and includes the universities of Cardiff, Manchester, Newcastle, Sussex as well as Fudan University in Shanghai, China, where Professor Davies was Distinguished Professor.
Professor Davies will not receive any financial benefits in his role as sustainability adviser to Urban Catalyst.
Sustainable place-making that promotes healthy living was already a key focus for the developer before Professor Davies' appointment. However, with lockdown driving global support for a green recovery, Urban Catalyst is bringing outside academic expertise to better inform its current and future developments.
The £1bn Purfleet-on-Thames regeneration, which Urban Catalyst is delivering jointly with Swan Housing Association and in partnership with Thurrock Council, uses a number of design features to minimise car use and support pedestrians and cyclists.
These include new routes that accommodate an integrated mix of travel methods from vehicles, scooters, cycles and walking. Additionally, putting shops, employment space and community uses within walking distance of residential areasDesigning-in support services such as bike storage, electric charging points and car clubs. Using design to reduce necessary daily trips by vehicle to achieve a reduction in congestion and speeds for vehicles reduced to 20mph with speed cameras and controlled junctions. The expansions to bus networks linking place of work and interest, centered around the new town centre, will improve access to Purfleet station.
The focus on health and wellbeing at Purfleet-on-Thames led Urban Catalyst to become a member of the NHS Healthy New Towns Network, alongside major companies and organisations such as FTSE-100 property giant British Land, leading housing association Peabody and listed housebuilder Redrow. It will also form part of the wider green growth plan across the entire Thames Estuary.