SRA have a proven record of consultation in regeneration programmes both in general terms and in relation to specific policy areas.   We have contributed socio-economic analyses for Environmental Impact Assessments.   Another important skill is advising on funding from Government, EU, international sources and charities.

One of the challenges in regeneration programmes is encouraging local people to take part in the decision making process in a constructive manner.  SRA are good at encouraging participation and overcoming the internal divisions which can arise.

When working in poor areas SRA sometimes train and employ local people to work alongside our own staff to carry out consultation.   Where this is accompanied by certification such capacity building has often led to local people obtaining permanent employment in the market research industry.

We work with community groups to write business plans for community centres and business start ups. Recent projects include a multicultural community centre in Barnsley and a centre for deaf people in Mansfield.  Other examples are:

• A Sure Start Centre at Beaumont Leys, Leicester.
• Socio-economic analysis for the regeneration of Grahame Park, Barnet
• Truro Masterplan -  Workshops with councillors and stakeholders about development opportunities within Truro 
• Nottingham Eastside Regeneration - open air events and web based consultation with local business and residents
• Masterplan consultation in Hinckley, Maldon and Rotherham.

NEWS

The most recent work in relation to regeneration has included the role of urban design in improving the overall profile of run down areas. The growing concern about child safety in poorer communities is part of this but also the wider effect of traffic/people conflict on the economic vitality of areas is a focus of our research.  To this end we have been working with Docklands LIght Railway and other stakeholders to improve the environment and access to stations.