Financing and governing urban mobility infrastructures in an uncertain world

The University of Manchester and University of Toronto are working together to find new approaches to urban infrastructure, and ways to influence policymakers to create resilient cities fit for the future.

Adapting to an ever-changing landscape

The complexities of the modern world are creating a unique set of challenges for urban infrastructure. Cities need to be resilient to climate change, reduce emissions, incorporate emerging mobility platforms and combat growing inequality. 

To align often conflicting economic, social and environmental objectives, and create prosperous cities in an uncertain future, new approaches to governance must be applied to unlock the power of infrastructure. 

Collaborating to maximise value

The project brought together graduates and academics from Manchester’s Urban Institute and Toronto’s School of Cities, as well as policymakers and urban practitioners from both city regions, to address the challenges together and find a way forward. 

The team discussed and compared infrastructure challenges faced by each city – sharing knowledge and good practice. These positive discussions revealed an enthusiasm to extend the relationship and look at how it could benefit other urban centres around the world. 

The collaboration was formalised by local government in both city regions with the International Doctoral Cluster. Focusing on cities and infrastructure in a global age – the Cluster offers a unique opportunity to strengthen the relationship between the two institutions, facilitating increased research capacity and producing resilient graduates, and opening up connections with new and international markets. 

Creating inclusive, resilient and sustainable cities

Workshops were held in both Manchester and Toronto, enabling researchers to share findings, identify common themes, make professional contacts and develop shared research agendas. Building and enhancing existing links between the two universities resulted in an engaged, proactive and committee international urban studies network. 

Along with the formation of the network, the project also facilitated productive collaboration between the local governments in each city region – both of which are growing and changing at pace, and facing similar challenges. Face-to-face meetings enabled both sides to share knowledge and experience, and co-develop best practice in infrastructure planning. 

This influential collaboration is making a meaningful contribution to international debates on crucial urban public policy issues at a critical time. Its finding have immediate relevance to policymakers, urban practitioners and community groups in Manchester and Toronto as they look to transform their infrastructure legacy and create inclusive, resilient, smart and sustainable cities for the future.