Urban Challenges in 21st Century Europe Conference held in Birmingham at the International Convention Centre on 29-30 October 2004 There were seven themes to the conference which varied in content, methods and style. Contributions were made by speakers from cities across Europe. This page includes presentations made at the conference. At the opening session, Professor Michael Parkinson Director of the European Institute for Urban Affairs at Liverpool John Moores University, spoke about a recent study commissioned by the UK Government on how English cities compare with European counterparts. He outlined his key findings and suggested how cities, governments and Europe need to respond. His presentation is attached below. Theme 4 - Creating Flourishing Cities. This workshop provided an opportunity to discuss the issues which have to be considered in creating flourishing cities. There were two sessions exploring cities as engines of growth and the role of cities within their regions. This was followed by a visit to the Central Technology Belt where a long term plan to regenerate the southern area of the city of Birmingham is being established. Presentations from the Workshop are attached below, as follows: "Shaping city-regions – the French experience", by Patrick Lusson, Future Studies Manager of Rhone Alps Regional Council; "The View of UK Government on the role of Cities as engines of growth" by David Lunts, Director of Urban Policy at ODPM; "Flourishing City-Regions" by Sandy Taylor "Progress in Partnership with the Knowledge Base" by Pam Waddell "CTB: Future Opportunities" by Geoff Palmer "Developing medical and healthcare potential" by David Taylor "Growth of Inverness – Gathering momentum over 25 years" by Mhairi Begg and Professor Hervey Gibson, Cogentsi

Conference Organisers: Regional, European and International Division Birmingham City Council The Council House Extension Margaret Street Birmingham B3 3BU Tel: +44 (0) 121 303 2903 Fax: +44 (0) 121 303 1326 Email: europe.int@birmingham.gov.uk