Challenge
Basildon Borough Council was drafting a new local plan – the first since 1998 – amid heightened public concern over climate change and housing. However, engagement faced several barriers:
- perception that the consultation was too late and predetermined (a “fait accompli”).
- low public awareness in some areas
- confusion about the process owing to previous failed attempts.
Approach
Copper designed and delivered a comprehensive engagement strategy to build trust and encourage participation by:
- simplifying complex proposals into accessible, visually engaging materials
- hosting in-person events across varied locations and times to maximise accessibility
- delivering online Q&As and interactive sessions for wider reach
- conducting proactive community outreach through pop-ups in everyday public spaces.
Value delivered
- Improved public understanding and engagement
- Reached a more representative cross-section of the community
- Built greater trust in the process, resulting in constructive feedback that enabled the council to better align the local plan with public needs and priorities.
Marketing materials
To foster stronger community engagement, we created a vibrant and accessible set of materials to inform and inspire.
View the banners