Curious Cities Assembly 2026
On 24 and 25 June 2026, elected leaders, advocates and experts focused on making cities safer, healthier and more liveable gathered in central London for the first ever Curious Cities Assembly!
Over two days of inspiring panel discussions, presentations, and fireside conversations, we explored practical, evidence-led ways to create more child-friendly cities while tackling the climate crisis.
Looking at cities through the lens of children’s curiosity revealed what streets, neighbourhoods and transport systems can become when children are able to move, play and explore independently.
A city that works for children works for all of us.
More than 40 speakers contributed to Curious Cities Assembly 2026, bringing perspectives from research, public policy, design, advocacy and community action. We are grateful to everyone who shared their knowledge, experience and ideas.
We heard speeches from:
Chris Boardman CBE
National Active Travel Commissioner for England
Ciara Alleyne
Deputy Leader of Lambeth Council
Mete Coban MBE
Deputy Mayor of London for Environment and Energy
Prof. Scarlett
McNally OBE
NHS / BMJ Columnist
Rezina Chowdhury
Active travel advocate & Former Deputy Leader
Mike Flynn
Commissioner,
NYC DOT
Rachel Harper
St. Patrick’s National School & founder of “It Takes a Village”
Dan Lert
Deputy Mayor
of Paris
And had conversations on:
Day 1 – Active Childhoods + Neighbourhoods & the Doorstep
Exploring how streets, transport and neighbourhood design can support children’s health, independence and play.
Day 2 – Barriers to Independence + Streets for Kids
Examining solutions, policies and interventions to make cities safer and more child-friendly.
Watch the session recordings
Session recordings from Curious Cities Assembly 2026 are all available to watch online.
Curious Cities Assembly 2026
9:08
5:04
22:28
23:16
16:43
20:30
14:06
29:16
11:22
40:50
41:21
18:36
15:04
5:07
11:55
53:42
33:18
37:57
28:56
7:51
42:44
17:50
18:19
42:52
38:50
15:37
Produced in partnership with
UMI
Fund
Town and Country Planning Association
Lab of Thought
Solve the School Run
Mums for Lungs
Live + Breathe
