The London Society Podcast

London's local elections have reshaped the political map of the capital, bringing in new councillors, new administrations and new priorities. But what happens after the votes are counted?

In this episode of Talk About London, Dave Hill, OnLondon and Leanne Tritton, The London Society are joined by Karen Alcock, one of London's most experienced public affairs professionals, to explore the practical realities of governing the city after a major election.

From planning committees and housing delivery to political leadership, coalition-building and the challenge of bringing new councillors up to speed, Karen explains how local government actually works when the headlines have faded.

The conversation looks at why decision-making can slow after elections, what this means for housing and development, how City Hall is responding to growing pressures on the planning system, and what residents, businesses and developers should expect over the coming months.

Whether you're interested in politics, planning, housing or simply how London functions, this episode offers a clear and accessible guide to the challenges and opportunities facing the capital as its new leaders get down to work.

1:12 - Discussion on the scale of change across boroughs
1:32 - Karen's insights on minority control and coalitions
2:14 - Challenges faced by new councillors
3:12 - Importance of officers in council operations
4:35 - Timeframe for councils to settle and make decisions
5:18 - Financial and political decision-making processes
6:19 - Expected delays in council operations
7:17 - Discussion on estate renewal and local plans
9:00 - Impact of political changes on council operations
10:05 - Loss of political muscle memory
11:21 - Collaboration between new and old councillors
12:26 - Day-to-day life of new councillors
15:11 - Discussion on housing and development challenges
19:14 - Mayoral interventions in planning decisions
23:15 - Green Party's approach to development
28:10 - Concerns about leadership and management techniques
29:39 - Future challenges like AI and data centers
31:24 - Mayoral interventions and their impact
35:06 - Emergency measures and planning policy changes
37:01 - Closing remarks and optimism for new councillors

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The Mayor of London is one of the most important roles in the country - shaping how the city grows, lives and works. But is there another way to run London?
In this episode of Talk About London, Peter Murray joins Leanne Tritton, The London Society and Dave Hill, OnLondon to argue that London’s future hinges on something often overlooked: the built environment.

With a housing crisis deepening and 600,000 people working across the sector, Peter sets out a more pragmatic, less political approach - one that brings together developers, communities and City Hall to unlock growth. From street votes and estate ballots to reducing development risk and learning from places like King’s Cross, he makes the case for a more collaborative, confident London.

If we want to build the homes and infrastructure the city needs, it starts with how we think about — and talk about — the places we shape every day.

Timestamps:

00:00 - Introduction to Peter Murray's candidacy and his background in London's development
02:44 - Addressing London's housing shortage and affordability crisis
03:41 - Knowledge gaps among candidates regarding London's built environment
06:07 - The significance of the built environment sector in London's economy
07:28 - The potential for independent candidates to succeed in London politics
09:44 - Why politicians struggle to understand London's development challenges
10:10 - The legacy of Ken Livingstone and pragmatism in urban planning
13:28 - The importance of supporting small and local builders
15:08 - The role of community involvement and local engagement
16:33 - The importance of better communication and public trust in development
17:16 - How social media can support development advocacy
20:11 - The influence of political fragmentation and the potential for independent mayoral leadership
23:37 - The possibility of collaboration rather than confrontation with local authorities
24:32 - Reducing conflicts in development processes through dialogue
28:00 - The potential of consensus-building and cross-party collaboration
32:41 - Challenges of densifying suburban London and innovative solutions
33:11 - The role of street-level agreements in development approval
35:23 - How reducing risk for developers can boost London’s housing supply
36:52 - Transforming planning departments into enablers of development
37:19 - The importance of building a sense of London citizenship and unity
38:12 - Advocating for community-building campaigns using London’s assets
39:41 - The importance of promoting London’s identity through symbols like flags and initiatives
40:24 - Fostering a shared London identity to overcome divisions
41:20 - Combating hate and promoting inclusivity in London
42:46 - The role of civic society in shaping the city’s future



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In this episode of Talk About London, the focus is on the upcoming council elections in London. Leanne Tritton, The London Society and Dave Hill, OnLondon are joined by Professor Tony Travers CBE, Director of LSE London at the London School of Economics, and Dr Nick Bowes FRGS, Managing Director, Insight and Public Affairs at LCA, to unpack what’s at stake. Nick has served as a local councillor.

The discussion highlights the scale of the elections, with 1,817 representatives set to be elected across 32 borough councils, and explores how local contests often act as a barometer for national political sentiment—raising the prospect of significant shifts in London’s political landscape.

Key themes include the fragmentation of traditional party loyalties, the rise of independent candidates, and the complexities of governing a city with increasingly diverse political dynamics. The conversation also examines the implications of councils falling into no overall control, the evolving role of local government, and the importance of experience in elected office.

The episode concludes with a reflection on the value of local politicians—and the enduring paradox between public trust in politics and how people ultimately vote.
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Dave Hill from OnLondon and Leanne Tritton, The London Society talk to Tim Reeve, COO of the V&A, about how culture can shape the future of London—and why it matters for the city’s next generation of places.

Drawing on the V&A’s work at East Bank in the Olympic Park, Tim shares how projects like the V&A East Museum and Storehouse are rethinking what a museum can be: open, accessible and embedded in the life of local communities. From behind-the-scenes access to working collections to bold public art, these initiatives are designed to engage new audiences and make culture feel relevant.

We explore how this approach is attracting a younger, more diverse audience, helping to rebuild trust in national institutions and demonstrating the role culture can play in social change. The conversation also looks ahead, asking whatLondon's New Towns Enfield and Thamesmead can learn as they develop their own identities.

More broadly, Tim reflects on London’s evolving cultural landscape, where activity is no longer concentrated in the centre but spread across the city—creating a more inclusive and dynamic model for the future.

If you’re interested in how culture can help shape better places, this episode offers a compelling and practical perspective.

00:00 - Introduction to the V&A East Museum and its mission
01:00 - The family of V&A museums and upcoming East Bank opening
01:46 - The theme of making and East London heritage
02:45 - Location significance and historical context of East Bank
03:04 - Opening date and visitor experience overview
03:32 - Sculpture "A Place Beyond" and its symbolism
04:17 - Collaboration with artist Thomas J. Price and community focus
05:13 - Representation of East London in art and impact of public artworks
06:22 - Inside the new building designed by Dublin-based O'Donnell and Toomey
07:25 - Culinary and architectural features of the V&A East Museum
07:55 - The "We Make" galleries: showcasing collections and new commissions
09:11 - Temporary exhibitions and public programs including Terrace views
09:34 - The success of the Storehouse reserve collection and visitor engagement
10:47 - The innovative approach to behind-the-scenes accessibility
12:12 - Visitor numbers and the cultural significance of expanding access
13:12 - Connecting East London with the national collections and community outreach
14:42 - Demographic insights: young, ethnically diverse visitors
15:46 - The broader Olympic Park legacy and its role in urban regeneration
21:21 - The origin and development of the East Bank cultural quarter post-Olympics
23:39 - Political commitment and the evolution of the cultural vision for London
30:41 - Dispersal of cultural institutions across different London districts
31:30 - Success stories like the Childhood Museum and flagship exhibitions
33:39 - The long-term strategy behind blockbuster exhibitions and innovation
34:49 - Summary and closing thoughts on London's cultural future

Resources & Links:
Victoria and Albert Museum - Official Site
Thomas J. Price - Artist Profile
Storehouse at the V&A
V&A East Museum - Official Announcement
David Bowie Archive - Official Site
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London’s Southbank Centre isn’t just an iconic cultural landmark — it’s a living example of resilience, innovation, and community spirit. In this episode, Elaine Bedell, CEO of the Southbank Centre, reveals how this historic space is navigating today's funding crisis, shifting public priorities, and the urgent need for capital repairs. From pandemic survival strategies to celebrating 75 years of cultural impact, Elaine shares the invisible architecture behind one of the world’s most beloved arts hubs.

Discover how the Southbank Centre’s unique leasehold, owned by the government but operated by the community, shapes its future. Elaine uncovers ambitious plans to blend big cultural moments like Danny Boyle’s upcoming anniversary event with grassroots engagement, including skateboarding histories and local poetry tours. She explains why London’s arts infrastructure is vital not only for tourism and identity but as an emotional anchor—especially in a time when political narratives overlook its importance.

You’ll learn about the critical need for capital investment in heritage buildings that serve millions annually—buildings that have stood since 1951 but are now facing leaks, structural decay, and outdated infrastructure. Elaine highlights how a thriving capital fuels regional arts, promotes social cohesion, and offers soft skills that transform individuals and communities alike.

Perfect for arts administrators, city planners, cultural advocates, and anyone curious about how cultural spaces sustain and reinvent themselves in challenging times, this episode offers a blueprint for preserving public treasures that make cities human, vibrant, and resilient.
Join us for a compelling look at how London’s cultural heartbeat continues to beat strong — through innovation, collaboration, and unwavering community spirit.

Timestamps:
00:00 - Introduction to Southbank Centre's legacy and significance
02:15 - Elaine Bedell's journey to CEO and initial impressions
05:00 - Funding challenges and the impact of government cuts
08:50 - Pandemic response and organizational resilience
13:00 - The cultural role of the Royal Festival Hall and public spaces
17:00 - Need for capital refurbishment and infrastructure concerns
21:20 - Collaboration with skateboarders and community relations
24:30 - Footfall, tourism, and the Centre’s national and international reach
28:45 - Celebrating the 75th anniversary with Danny Boyle and upcoming events
32:00 - Interconnection between London and regional arts initiatives
33:45 - The debate on regional funding and London’s cultural importance
35:30 - Reflections on London’s Olympic legacy and community pride
36:30 - Personal reflections from Elaine about her role and challenges
37:00 - Closing thoughts and upcoming celebrations
Resources & Links:
Southbank Centre Official Website
Danny Boyle’s Creative Work
Royal Festival Hall - Grade I Listed Building
National Poetry Library
London Society
Connect with Elaine Bedell:
LinkedIn
Twitter

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