Our story

This international initiative started in 2018 as a 2 year research project funded by the UKRI Arts & Humanities Research Council. It brought together academics, civic and commercial leaders, as well as citizens into conversation about the future shape and role of the city centre. Symposia were held in four cities across four continents – in the UK, Australia, South Africa and Brazil - to share experiences on how the challenges and opportunities faced by city centres are being addressed in practice and importantly to outline a vision of the future of the city centre. This research helped set the future research agenda for the FCCN, identifying key themes that are shaping the future role of the city centre in the middle of the 21st century.

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Since then, our research has expanded and we are now engaged with more cities and citizens globally to capture innovative ways in which the city centre is being made more sustainable and resilient, and collaborate with city leaders to imagine and deliver vibrant downtowns.

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The FCCN provides a key platform and forum for open debate and discussion about how this key urban space can be sustainable and contribute to societal and environmental grand challenges. It seeks to inform urban policy making and practice in designing city centres to be inclusive and meeting local needs whilst also being at the heart of regional economies. 

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We welcome anyone who shares our interest and passion to help keep the city centre relevant - academics, practitioners, NGOs, community organisations, and citizens - to join with us as part of the FCCN. Use the form below to get in touch and help shape future city centres.

Membership is free - all we ask is that you contribute to the discussions, share your thoughts on what is working and what needs to change, and where appropriate work with us on research projects.