Dr Husam Al‑Waer delivered a keynote examining the principles and implementation challenges of the 20‑minute neighbourhood concept. His talk positioned the model as a person‑centred framework focused on aligning proximity, density, mixed use, connectivity and inclusivity. He emphasised the need for civic and social infrastructure as prerequisites for successful local living, and highlighted the importance of sequencing—ensuring infrastructure accompanies, not lags behind, housing delivery.
The session was chaired by Máire Henry MRIAI, with contributions from senior Irish local authority urban designers. It formed a core part of Day 1, marking a significant discussion on placemaking within Ireland’s housing policy debate.
Period
23 Feb 2026
Event title
RIAI/DHLGH Joint Housing Conference 2026 – Activation Through Collaboration