elop*9 Project

elop* has been engaged since its outset in 2009 in complex tasks that can only be tackled successfully by transdisciplinary teams. elop* works with students and faculty from an international network of partner universities(elop* alliance). After 8 editions that have taken place in Switzerland (4x), China, Germany, USA and Mexico, in 2016 elop* travels to Bangor UK. (https://www.bangor.ac.uk/)

Project Topic

Coherent Connections – Bangor
Academics and Students from an alliance of globally leading universities,

will engage with stakeholders and communities for 4 months to propose a

transformation of the built and social environment in Bangor, driven by

developments in Autonomous Transport.

Uber, Google, TESLA and Apple (probably): multibillion dollar companies

engaged in a race with the automotive industry to

introduce autonomous vehicles to our roads and highways. Regardless of who

wins this race, the outcome will change how we get from A to B. Mobility

is about to undergo a radical transformation.

But this is only part of the story - inevitably, there will be unintended

consequences. Consider: when it is cheaper and more convenient to hire

transport by the minute than to own; indeed, when there is no longer a

need to own a vehicle; what happens to the value of town centre parking

lots? To what use do we put our driveways and garages?

Situation

Nestled between the frosted peaks of the Snowdonia National Park and the

turbulent waters of the Menai Straits, Bangor is cocooned by natural

beauty. The oldest city in Wales, and home to the site of the oldest

cathedral in the UK, Bangor has a rich history, which is simultaneously

complemented by pioneering research conducted at the local university.

This fusion of antiquity and novelty is mirrored in the city’s built

environment; at the top of the valley stands the historic Main Arts

Building, juxtaposed in clear contrast to the contemporary Pontio Arts and

Innovation Centre. Pontio, or ‘bridge’ in Welsh stands as a link between

the University, and the city’s heart.

Project aim

The aim of the project is to create a vision for coherent and connected

experiences in Bangor, by transforming mobility and fostering highstreet

entrepreneurship, resulting in economic regeneration.

Specifically, proposals will aim to:

- Transform mobility and connectivity

- Foster creative entrepreneurship

Which will result in:

- Regeneration of economic and industrial capacity

- Increased community aspirations, self-efficacy and resilience

- Amplified regional culture and tourism

The flyer, which describes the topic and task can be found below.