Sector: Science park

A year-long consultation and engagement programme for a new destination science and innovation park in Cambridge.

Land South of Coldhams Lane – Science Park

Mission Street, Cambridge City Council - Status: Planning application approved

Our role: Following a competitive tendering process, Chess Engage was commissioned to deliver a bespoke communications and stakeholder programme. Our extensive local knowledge and understanding of the challenges and opportunities in the region played a pivotal role in our selection for this project.

 

Our approach: Recognising the local historic controversy surrounding the site our approach centred on rebuilding and reinforcing existing relationships within the Cambridge community. We developed a programme of engagement with political stakeholders, as well as the expansive network of local groups, recognising the importance of their involvement in the engagement process.

 

To ensure meaningful participation, we recommended and delivered a 12-month consultation programme to provide ample opportunities for stakeholders and communities to shape and contribute to the proposed plans.


  • We met with over 30 groups, individuals and organisations across the City and especially locally in Cherry Hinton;
  • Worked alongside the Cambridge Centre for Science;
  • Held a drop in event & two public exhibitions with approx. 250 people attending;
  • Undertook a school engagement programme focused on promoting science and STEM subjects, supported by the City Council School Outreach officer team;
  • Met local City and County Councillors;
  • Held officer-led briefing meetings for Councillors;
  • Presented at the Cherry Hinton Residents Association AGM;
  • Informed over 2500 households of our events through regular direct mail letters;
  • Wrote to neighbours of the site to keep them informed, as well as objectors to ensure transparency and engagement;
  • Met with the Mayor of the Combined Authority;
  • Made a presentation to the Cambridge East Community Forum and provided subsequent updates.


We also designed a school outreach programme, strengthening relationships with the younger community and creating opportunities for them to put forward their perspectives and ideas.


Results:

  • Insights from the consultation program informed the proposed scheme, ensuring community perspectives helped shape the development.
  • The application was unanimously approved by the Cambridge City Council Planning Committee in September 2024.
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