Research and Innovation

Giving communities a stronger voice in urban decisions

Queen Mary researchers are studying how residents can have a stronger say in decisions about the places where they live. The PAR-CITY project, launched in 2024, looks at how cities involve residents in urban decision-making. The project brings together 25 researchers from 21 universities in eight countries and compares different approaches across seven cities. The research looks at who takes part in local decisions, whose voices are heard and what helps public participation work well. This can help cities develop fairer ways of involving residents when neighbourhoods and public spaces change. 

Supporting cleaner and more sustainable journeys 

Queen Mary’s CHILL study looks at how London’s Ultra Low Emission Zone affects children’s health and the way they travel to school. Research published in 2024 found that 42% of London children in the study changed from car journeys to walking or cycling after the ULEZ was introduced, compared with 20% of children in Luton. 

Further research published in 2025 looked at the experiences of families and teachers. Many reported cleaner air and safer roads, while the study also identified barriers faced by families who depend more heavily on cars. This project has given policymakers practical evidence on how clean-air measures can support healthier and more sustainable travel, while also showing where additional support may be needed. 

Using technology to understand walking and cycling 

Queen Mary researchers are also developing new ways to understand how people move around cities. The DASMATE project uses signals from existing fibre-optic infrastructure to study active travel. This could make it possible to monitor patterns of walking and cycling without relying on conventional camera systems. Related Queen Mary research has collected data around more than 800 Santander Cycle docking locations in London to study road conditions from a cyclist’s perspective. Researchers are also using air-quality, GPS and cycling data to explore what makes urban routes feel safe or unsafe. This work can give transport planners better information about where cycling conditions need to improve and how streets can be made safer for active travel. 

Working with communities to improve East Ham High Street

Queen Mary researchers worked with local residents and stakeholders to look at how East Ham High Street could become cleaner, safer, greener and more welcoming. The East Ham High Street project gathered views on issues including cleanliness, safety, green space, local businesses and the role of the High Street as a community space. Residents also suggested practical changes that could improve the area and support more inclusive local growth. 

The research produced recommendations for the future development of the High Street. This is a direct example of Queen Mary using research and community input to support local planning and development. 

Understanding how cities and neighbourhoods change 

Queen Mary’s City Centre brings together researchers working on urban life, politics, housing, migration and neighbourhood change. During 2024 and 2025, its work included research and public discussion on urban change, migration, welcoming cities and how communities make claims for change in the places where they live. This work helps build a better understanding of how planning, housing and public policy affect different communities. It also creates opportunities for researchers, policymakers and others working on cities to share evidence and discuss how urban development can become more inclusive.