Milton Keynes is leading the charge in smart city initiatives, addressing key urban challenges such as sustainability, health, and social equity. With a culture of openness and innovation, the city has become a testbed for emerging technologies and forward-thinking strategies. In a podcast, Shanika Mahendran, the youngest cabinet member for economy, sustainability, and innovation in Milton Keynes, highlights the city’s ambitious plans to create a more sustainable and inclusive urban future.
Born as a planned post-war new town, Milton Keynes was designed with a balance between urban living and green spaces. However, its grid-based, low-density layout presents challenges, particularly around public transport and social inequality. Life expectancy varies significantly between neighbourhoods, underscoring the city’s need to address these disparities. To tackle these issues, Milton Keynes has turned to smart technologies like autonomous vehicles and drone services to improve transportation and urban mobility.
One of the city’s flagship projects, MK:Smart, a collaboration between The Open University and Milton Keynes Coucil, focuses on integrating technology into urban planning, particularly in the areas of transport and health. Additionally, the city is pushing environmental sustainability through green infrastructure initiatives, such as low-carbon construction, rooftop gardens, and community orchards.
Milton Keynes’ success lies not only in its technological advancements but also in its commitment to collaboration. Partnerships with innovative businesses and organisations are driving the city toward its goal of becoming carbon neutral by 2030. Mahendran stresses the importance of ensuring that growth benefits all residents, particularly marginalised groups, to foster social equity.
By focusing on health, sustainability, and inclusivity, Milton Keynes is emerging as a leading example of smart city innovation. Through strategic partnerships and collaborative efforts, the city is paving the way for a resilient, sustainable, and inclusive urban future.