Julia and Remi’s thesis, Re-defining Dispersion & Growth: Towards Dispersion Equity, explores sampling’ methodology - a unique, manually created algorithm identifying human behaviour and interaction with the built environment - to improve the Dispersion Index score for the M58 motorway and Merseyside area determined through an extensive research and analysis. A huge part of the proposal is the new connectivity strategy, which aims at connecting the disconnected. This approach addresses precise locations of the least dispersed and least connected areas, that would be use-intense, largescale sites specialising in pre-defined programmes. These nodes would mediate between the M58, Liverpool and the less developed sites outside the area of focus.
Remi is a proud Mancunian and aspiring designer of the Universe. His ultimate design goal is to pioneer a new era, a new precedent of what design should be, and what it can be for the benefit of life everywhere. Julia is a recent MArch gradate from the Manchester School of Architecture, whose focus over the past few years has been on bridging the gap between urban planning and architecture. She is fascinated by pushing the boundaries of traditional design process and methodologies, exploring the future potentials for city planning.
Julia and Remi’s excellent project investigating the connectivity of national, regional and local transport systems in the Manchester area, provides great food for thought for the Government’s levelling up agenda. It was very well thought through and beautifully presented
Chris also presented the runner up prize to Jan MacBean for his proposal: A Paddington Pollution Solution and the Westway Garden Path.
Jan’s proposal compromises two phases. Phase one looks to manage the dangerously high level of air pollution around the Paddington Basin by sequestering CO2 and NO2 with algae from the canal. A parasitic structure suspends the two laboratory modules that house the technology for processing algae and generating electricity, affording the building self-sufficiency. In the forum of A Paddington Pollution Solution art, installations, seminars and workshops are all component to the dissemination of information about the impact of pollution, making the exchange of knowledge accessible, helping shift the narrative on pollution and urban land use.
Jan is a second year student at the University of Westminster, during his first year he was awarded the Technical Studies Prize recognising his interest in sustainability through modular design. Eager to resolve the problems of land use, public space, ecology and fossil fuel dependence Jan will continue exploring the use of modular and parasitic structures in a public setting during this academic year.
Having sat on the board of the Westway Trust for several I found Jan’s ideas particularly insightful involving the local community in a creative proposal
The Weston Williamson + Partners Future of Transport Student Prize is awarded for the best research or design proposal studying future modes of travel and their impact on the environment. The award is presented in partnership with the Worshipful Company of Chartered Architects one of the City of London’s Livery Companies. The Company promotes quality architecture in the City of London and the architectural professional globally, as well supporting education through awards and prizes.
The Future of Transport Student Prize represents our passion for transport, and our commitment to promoting ways to move people from cars onto safe, efficient and well-designed transport systems. For over 30 years, since designing London Bridge Station, we have been involved in some of the most important international transport projects, projects that have changed the way people live, work, rest and most importantly move. We are always looking towards the future, supporting new ideas and the next generation of talent. This year Chris Williamson will be leading the Future Transport Design Think Tank at the London School of Architecture.