Signalling its focus on creating more inclusive cities through holistic transport planning, sustainable development consultancy Arup has bolstered its team of senior city planners and designers.
The most recent addition to the firm’s Cities, Planning and Design portfolio is Tessa Knox-Grant, former Executive Director in the NSW transport department, who joins Arup as Sustainable Transport Lead in Australasia.
Arup’s Cities, Planning and Design Lead in Australasia, Jonathan Kinghorn said Tessa’s appointment reflects the firm’s commitment to shaping more sustainable and inclusive cities and recognises the significant role of cities in building climate resilience through the use of sustainable infrastructure, urban greening, and renewable energy.
“We know that cities are responsible for more than two thirds of global emissions with almost 70 per cent of the world’s population is set to live in them by 2030,” Kinghorn said.
“The problems we’re encountering in cities are evolving. Implementing the changes that we need to achieve net zero carbon goals requires the kind of energy and diversity of thought that Arup’s multidisciplinary team bring to the table and developing integrated and inclusive transport networks is a key part of that work.
“Transport networks make up the fabric of urban environments, providing all important links to work, education, social connections, and goods and services that enable thriving, liveable and inclusive cities. With Tessa on board leading Sustainable Transport, we’re in a great position to ‘walk the walk’ and deliver on our commitment to shape a better world through sustainable development.”
Knox-Grant returns to Arup after almost 12 years in senior positions in the private and public sectors across Australia.
“Coming back to Arup feels like a homecoming,” said Knox-Grant. “Arup’s focus on creating a better world through sustainable development fit perfectly with the values I hold, and my focus on holistic multi-modal transport projects that integrate the varying needs of the community. I’ve always stayed connected to Arup’s strong global network, and I’m enthusiastic to bring the relationships, connections, and industry expertise to help the firm deliver on their inclusive cities agenda.”