Overview

Blanket 20 mph! Cycle lanes that nobody uses! So why do a bunch of Lycra-clad atavists on bikes want to slow down our towns and cities to the speed of the 1800s? In this presentation, Tom Wharf will demonstrate how smart engineers have been asked to solve the wrong problem for decades… and got really good at it. In this provocative talk, we’ll explore how decades of engineering have focused on solving the wrong problem; using all available street space for moving and storing our vehicles, while undermining the places we live, work and love.

Drawing on his background in flood risk engineering, Tom compares the outdated focus on “conveyance” in both water and transport systems. In flood management, straightening rivers to move water quickly led to ecological damage and increased downstream flooding. Today, natural flood management and river restoration offer more sustainable, effective solutions. 

Transport engineering is undergoing a similar shift. Prioritising road space and parking has created urban environments that sever communities, harm public health, and stifle economic and social activity. Wide roads sever. Fast cars kill. Car-centric design leaves us isolated, unhealthy, and financially burdened.

But change is underway. Just as flood engineers embraced restoration, transport professionals are now advocating for people-first design.

Tom will show the power of this change to heal broken communities and unhealthy lifestyles, and its potential to tackle climate changes’ causes and mitigate its impacts. He will also show you why it matters to your wallet today and to our economy in perpetuity to make this change happen… and fast!

Why you cannot miss this event?

• Excellent CPD opportunity
• Learn about car-centric vs people-centric design
• Learn about the economic drivers for walking and cycling infrastructure
• Interactive Q&A with an expert

Who is this event for?

Anyone working or interested in Highways and Transport.

Speaker

Tom Wharf MEng CEng MICE - Head of Design, Transport for Wales Tom is on a mission to make moving through Wales sustainable, fun and fair. He is motivated by a desire for a just transition towards a sustainable future, through inclusive, engaging and innovative design and policy. Tom's work makes infrastructure happen. In his 20 year long career, Tom has gained broad experience across water, maritime structures, flood risk, nuclear and transport domains. He has worked in contracting, charity, public sector, non-executive and consultancy roles. But mostly he just loves making a positive impact on people’s lives - now, and into the future - through leading impactful infrastructure delivery teams that are great places to work, grow and leave a positive legacy for civil society.

Take action: Record your CPD

CPD is defined as any activity that provides new knowledge or skills that help you to achieve your professional development goals or has otherwise helped you to develop as a highways and transportation professional.

Plan, record and manage your CPD for free at CIHT Learn.

Need help with getting the most out of your CPD access CIHT’s CPD Guidance here.

Accessibility and Inclusion, Help & Support

We are working to ensure that the event is as comfortable and inclusive as possible.

You can contact us in confidence to ask questions and/or to let us know of any accessibility requirements or adjustments that you may have: wales@ciht.org.uk.