Guildford Plaza, Tiger Developments

The co-living sector has evolved to provide diverse urban housing solutions, catering to a mix of demographics in increasingly dense city environments. Tiger Developments proposed a co-living scheme on the edge of Guildford town centre, transforming a previously consented retirement living scheme. While the new scheme broadly followed the original massing and footprint, the change in use meant a higher number of residents. We were appointed to secure political and community support for the proposal.

Before commencing work, we conducted a thorough audit of the local political landscape and community sentiment. Recognising early on that gaining neighbour support would be crucial, we initiated an intensive relationship-building campaign, starting with door-knocking to put a human face to the project. By maintaining regular dialogue with residents, we identified early supporters who later helped advocate for the scheme by writing to the Council.

We engaged key decision-makers at cabinet level, and the ward councillors, addressing their concerns about effective scheme management and neighbour relations helped secure their support.

Given that our engagement took place during the tail end of lockdown, we adapted our approach by holding online webinars and launching a dedicated project website to ensure accessibility and transparency. Our strategic approach resulted in a planning committee approval in February 2022, with 12 votes in favour and two abstentions. By securing political and community buy-in, we helped pave the way for Guildford Plaza, a sustainable co-living development that will contribute to the town centre’s long-term regeneration.