Building Bloomsbury:
Urban Masterplanning Hackathon
The UCL Bartlett School of Planning Urban Master Planning Hackathon is a week-long event from February 26 - March 5, 2025, designed to bring together undergraduate and postgraduate students from UCL and beyond to tackle real-world urban planning challenges. Participants will form diverse teams, attend workshops, and collaborate on creating a master plan for UCL Bloomsbury, focusing on sustainability, connectivity, and identity. The event includes site briefings, expert-led sessions, and final presentations judged by industry professionals, with prizes awarded to the best proposals. Open to students from all disciplines, the hackathon offers a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience, network with peers and professionals, enhance CVs and create quality work for portfolios, through practical, interdisciplinary learning.
Problem Statement
Developing a comprehensive master plan for UCL’s Bloomsbury campus that effectively addresses three key criteria: sustainability, connectivity, and strengthening the university's identity within the area. Participants will explore pressing issues such as enhancing environmental responsibility, improving physical and social connectivity, and reinforcing UCL's presence and character in the Bloomsbury community. The goal is to create a visionary yet practical plan that aligns with the evolving needs of students, staff, and the wider community.
Key Information to Note
What is it?
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A week-long event where students collaborate to solve real-world urban planning challenges. The hackathon promotes innovation, teamwork, and meaningful contributions to urban development.
Who can join?
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The event is open to undergraduate and postgraduate students from UCL and other universities. It is ideal for anyone interested in urban planning, sustainability, and interdisciplinary collaboration. No prior experience is required!
When and
where?
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Registration deadline: February 7th (Friday)
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Kick-off: February 26th, 2025 (Wednesday, 2PM - 6PM)
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Workshops and team discussions: March 1st and 2nd (studio and tutors available 11AM - 6PM)
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Final presentations: March 5th, 2025 (Wednesday, 2:30PM - 5PM)
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Locations across UCL with hybrid options available for remote participation, except for the final presentations, which must be in person.
What will you do?
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Form diverse teams and develop a master plan for UCL Bloomsbury.
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Participate in workshops, site briefings, and team discussions led by industry professionals.
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Present your proposals to a panel of judges, with prizes for the best ideas.
Why join?
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Low Time Commitment: It’s a fun, over-the-weekend exercise (March 1-2) with an easy-going schedule! The introductory and judging sessions are brief and recorded—perfect for busy students.
Boost Your CV: Gain hands-on urban planning experience, collaborate with UCL Estates, and receive guidance from top industry professionals—all of which will enhance your portfolio.
Network & Win Prizes: Meet like-minded peers, interact with experts like Matthew Carmona, and compete for exciting rewards!
Join Solo or as a Team: Have friends? Form your own team and work together! Flying solo? No worries—you’ll be placed in a fun, interdisciplinary team and guaranteed a great experience.
How to join?
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Register using the link at the top of the page, deadline is February 7th!