Community Outreach Symposium

Time: 10.00am - 5.00pm
Venue: Town House Courtyard, Penrhyn Road campus, Penrhyn Road, Kingston upon Thames, Surrey KT1 2EE
Price: free

This Symposium will gather researchers, local stakeholders, and community members to explore important topics that directly impact the well-being and vitality of our borough. Specifically, the symposium will feature presentations on four key areas:

• House prices and employment In the Royal Borough of Kingston upon Thames
• Tax Haven Owned Homes in the Royal Borough of Kingston upon Thames
• Homelessness and Empty Homes in the Royal Borough of Kingston upon Thames
• Retrofitting Homes for Climate Change in the Royal Borough of Kingston upon Thames

These topics hold significant implications for the local community and its future. By understanding the dynamics between house prices and employment, we can gain insights into how these factors intertwine and influence each other, enabling us to make more informed decisions. Additionally, exploring the impact of tax haven-owned homes in the borough will shed light on the broader implications of such ownership, which may have far-reaching social and economic consequences.

The symposium will also address the issue of empty homes in the borough. Understanding why properties remain unoccupied can provide valuable insights into potential solutions to address this issue, such as housing initiatives or community development projects. In line with our commitment to addressing the pressing challenges of our time, Kingston University recognises the urgent need to tackle climate change and promote sustainable practices. Retrofitting homes plays a crucial role in mitigating the effects of climate change by reducing energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions.

Through research, partnerships with local authorities, and community engagement, we aim to promote and support initiatives that facilitate the retrofitting of homes in our borough. By encouraging sustainable building practices, promoting energy efficiency, and raising awareness about the environmental impact of our choices, we seek to create a greener and more resilient community that addresses the challenges posed by climate change.

The purpose of this symposium goes beyond merely sharing research findings. It aims to bring together a diverse range of stakeholders, including residents, community organisations, faith groups, local authority actors, and students, to foster collaboration and dialogue. By disseminating the information gathered, we aim to contribute towards shaping local policy and enriching community life in the area.

We encourage all attendees to actively participate in discussions, ask questions, and share their insights. By collectively engaging in this important dialogue, we can pave the way for relevant and impactful actions that will positively shape the future of the local community in our borough. 

All are welcome!

Speakers and sessions

House prices and employment In the Royal Borough of Kingston upon Thames - Dr Jalal Siddiki, Department of Economics
Empty homes and homelessness in the Royal Borough of Kingston upon Thames - Chris Bailey, Action on Empty Homes
Tax Haven-owned homes in the Royal Borough of Kingston upon Thames - Dr Rex McKenzie and Dr Andrea Ingianni, Department of Economics
Transition to Net Zero in London - Dr Christina Wolf, Hertfordshire Business School
Net Zero transition in London and in the UK: evidence on green jobs and green skills - Professor Michela Vecchi, Department of Economics
Retrofitting in the Royal Borough of Kingston - Brighid Carey, Action on Empty Homes

The event will be followed by a reception in the Stanley Picker Gallery, which will be hosting an exhibition entitled: Under Construction by Takeshi Hayatsu and collaborators.

For further information about this event:

Contact: Dr Rex McKenzie
Email: R.Mckenzie@kingston.ac.uk