Episode 29 - "20 Minute Neighbourhoods" with James Mant

Today on Moments of Clarity, I speak with James Mant.    James is a town planner and passionate urbanist who has a vision to improve cities to ensure they are more livable, sustainable and equitable. James leads the Victorian Government’s 20-minute neighbourhood policy, a key component of Plan Melbourne 2017-2050. James has worked in the Rural Council Planning Flying Squad providing support to regional councils and also worked to deliver the government planning response to the Bushfire Royal Commission. Originally from Portsmouth in the UK, James trained in the UK and Netherlands and started his career in Dublin, Ireland.     You can follow James on Twitter @jamesmant or follow the link below for more information about the work James is leading. https://www.planning.vic.gov.au/policy-and-strategy/planning-for-melbourne/plan-melbourne/20-minute-neighbourhoods   if you enjoy Moments of Clarity, please share the podcast with family, friends and social networks. It would be brilliant if you could leave a review on Apple Podcasts and subscribe to the podcast too.   Instagram: @momentsofclaritypodcast Facebook: @momentsofclaritypodcast Twitter: @BarneyMOC Email: [email protected]   Podcast by Matthew Sortino Music by Christian Prochilo Artwork by Michael Chrisanthopoulos   Time Stamps Introduction 0:00 - 2:53  Part 1 2:54 - 28:29  James’ early career, a near death experience, recovery and resilience, changing values, nearly joining the army, a heartwarming moment. Part 2 28:30 - 68:53 Working as a town planner in Ireland and England, defining town planning, Plan Melbourne and 20 Minute Neighbourhoods, making cities more livable. cities for people and not just for cars. Some of the challenges in melbourne. Part 3 68:54 - 105:26 Covid-19s impact on 20 minute neighbourhoods, the role of the individual in creating better communities, the value of connection, the climate crisis driving the importance of change, the values that underpin James' vision, how to get involved in creating change and a Moment of Clarity. Outro 145:27 - 145:55