University masterplan | Local Dialogue

University of Sussex

Education

Local Dialogue was appointed by the University of Sussex to improve relations with key local authority figures following the surprise rejection of its campus masterplan.

Local Dialogue supported the University’s planning appeal – ensuring the University has a positive relationship with key political figures, galvanising support and improving the University’s image in Brighton.

Challenges

University’s Masterplan rejected near unanimously at planning committee
Positive messages not widely recognised
Negative perception of students among some key stakeholders
Key relationships not established

Response

Key positive messages clearly articulated
Meetings and relationships established with all political leaders and  Members of Parliament
Worked with key local stakeholders to nd support for University and encourage supporters to make positive representations

Outcome

In a relatively short space of time, the leaders of each of the local parties, including the Leader of the Council, are all fully aware of the importance of the University and its plans to expand. Following an intensive campaign,  a significant number of key stakeholders have wrote to the Planning Inspectorate in support of the University’s appeal – supporters included members of the planning committee, local captains of industry and research, the neighbouring local authority and one of the site’s MPs. The plans were approved at appeal and we continue to support the University.

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