The event marked not only two decades of achievement as a far-reaching, respected and influential organisation, but also the strong relationship between JTP and the AoU. As a committed partner since the Academy’s inception, JTP has played a formative role in supporting its mission, shaped profoundly by the late John Thompson, JTP’s Founding Chair, whose early leadership of the Academy helped anchor its vision, values and focus, including the Academy’s Awards programme.
In his welcome address, JTP Partner Charles Campion reflected on the significance of gathering at the Pennington Street studio, a repurposed, adaptive space that chimes with the Academy’s ethos of “learning from place” and creatively reimagining the built environment. Charles noted recent events held in the space, from a Wildlife Trust youth event and professional seminars and launches, to the filming of “The Apprentice” final, illustrating the studio’s role as a place of collaboration and innovation.
The celebration looked back on formative moments in the Academy’s story, including the first brainstorming workshop at RIBA in 2005, many memorable events and visits, and the enduring influence of the AoU Manifesto and its 18 principles of good urbanism. It also recognised the artists and writers who have shaped the Academy’s character, including Ian McMillan, aka the “Bard of Barnsley”, whose final appearance on the night as Academy Poet-in-Residence left a lasting impression with his signature humour and warmth.
A highlight of the evening was the recognition of Trevor Osborne, awarded the title of Honorary Urbanist for his role in helping establish the Academy in the early days and his outstanding contributions to place and community over many decades. The growth and importance of the Young Urbanists, now around 300 strong, were underscored with an address from JTP Urban Designer, Astrid Guthier, an active participant of the group and speaking as a confident voice for the Academy’s future.
