Southampton Law School Hosts 13th Annual Meeting of ALPS
Southampton Law School successfully hosted the 13th annual meeting of the Association for Law, Property and Society (ALPS). The conference, from 11-13 May 2023, marked the return to an in-person format following COVID-19. Scholars from around the globe and across property-related disciplines gathered together to explore the latest research and scholarship.
As part of the ALPS tradition, the conference began with a field trip to the New Forest on 11 May. This gave delegates a chance to experience this unique area of outstanding natural beauty and to learn more about the rights of commoning through a talk delivered by Councillor Ann Sevier who is herself a commoner of the Forest. Delegates learned about the work of the Verderers’ Court and the rich biodiversity of the New Forest from Clive Chatters. Clive Chatters pointed out that successfully maintaining the fragile ecology of the Forest was dependent on understanding the symbiotic relationship between the human and the non-human in the Forest environment.
Other highlights included a well received plenary panel on Friday lunchtime - Alternative Properties - moderated by Professor Alison Clarke and a challenging and wide ranging keynote lecture delivered by Professor Sue Bright (New College, University of Oxford). Professor Bright explored the legal challenges of building remediation in the aftermath of the Grenfell fire. and reflected on the persistent and traumatic difficulties faced by those living in high-rise flats as well as the apparent impotence of law and government to resolve the problems.
The Research Centre for People, Property and Community was launched on the Friday evening at the John Hansard Gallery where delegates were welcomed by Head of School, Professor Werner Scholtz. Professor Scholtz underlined how the centre is a vital part of Southampton Law School’s global identity. Centre Director, Professor Helen Carr also welcomed delegates and said that the Centre brings together scholars working from a range of theoretical, methodological and doctrinal perspectives. What unites and amplifies their scholarship is a joint commitment to social justice and a belief that interdisplinarity and working collaboratively is necessary to make a difference. To the complex global problems society faces.
Commenting on the conference, lead co-organiser Professor Sarah Nield said “it was a great privilege to welcome so many outstanding property scholars from around the world. They made the conference a real success and demonstrated the vibrancy of the ALPS community as an inclusive and supportive environment that enriches all. The events team at Southampton ensured that the conference went without a hitch – our wholehearted thanks go to them.”
You can find out more about the Association for Law Property and Society and view the programme to learn more about the papers delivered or get in touch with those who presented directly.
Learn more about the Research Centre for People, Property and Community.
