Tackling innovation skills shortages in UK cities and towns

Smart Cities UK Conference Director, Scott Buckler, has stated that the UK is currently facing a skills shortage when it comes to driving innovation for smarter cities.

The Smart Cities Conference, which takes place annually every February, will explore the current challenges councils are facing when it comes to accelerating economic and social growth.

The recent austerity cuts have seen many UK cities and towns facing budget and resource restrictions which are leading to a blockage in the pipeline of many planned ‘smart’ projects.

This blockage, combined with a restricted skills base, is preventing strong growth across the UK. The conference, held in London, will provide CPD Accredited learning including workshop sessions for councils on a range of subjects, including how to collect data effectively, build smart homes to improve the health and wellbeing of tenants, and tackle travel congestion smartly.

The conference will be chaired by Allan Mayo, Smart City Strategist at Digital Greenwich – who are leading on several projects including autonomous vehicles within the Royal Borough of Greenwich and Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park which hope to bring jobs, businesses and investment to the local areas.

Other speakers include Smart Cities Tsar, Jacqui Taylor and Ken Cooper who will discuss the role of the British Business Bank and Northern Powerhouse. The evening will culminate with the annual awards which celebrate smart city projects across the UK.

To find out further information please visit www.smartcityuk.com or to enter the awards visit www.smartcityukawards.com