First UK Prop Social at Cambridge North Novotel
Rachel Hales, founder of Get Synergised, in conjunction with Matthew Battle, managing director of UK Property Forums, launched the first UK Prop Social event in Cambridge with Sarah Coates, partner and Cambridge head of commercial property at Tees Law.
The event at the Novotel in Cambridge North began with an introduction to Cambridge North by Harry Blevins, a surveyor in the business space team at Bidwells.
Brookgate’s property director Simon Wallis then described the importance of fostering strong community links as part of the development of Cambridge North.
The session, chaired by Mr Battle, delved into ‘responsible business’ with a panel that included:
- Rebecca Britton, regional director for communication, communities, and partnerships at Urban & Civic
- Nicky Shepard, chief executive of Abbey People
- Darren Heffer, director at Saunders Boston Architects
- Sarah Coates, partner and Cambridge head of commercial property at Tees Law
The key proposition is that “it is time to work meaningfully and sustainably across sectors to shape practices and policies that leave a lasting positive legacy”.
The task is for businesses, including developers, “to prioritise a purpose beyond their own agendas” to deliver a meaningful community-building agenda. This requires “strategic planning, active listening, and long-term partnerships grounded in shared values”.
Sarah Coates said: “Too often, these issues are overlooked, resulting in a disconnect between businesses and communities.
“Tees Law is working hard with many other property professionals, charities and social enterprises to bridge this gap, offering advice and support wherever possible.”
After the event, Rachel Hales said: “This event marks the beginning of more purposeful discussions on responsible business practices in the property sector and underscores a strong commitment to cross-sector collaboration, breaking down silos and addressing social needs in meaningful and sustainable ways.
“Community engagement must move beyond tick-box exercises, requiring embedded strategies and long-term partnerships aligned with business goals. This strategic approach ensures mutual value and measurable social impact as a responsible way to do business.”
Matthew Battle added: “The property, construction and design sectors which work across Cambridge and the East of England region are keen to be engaged in this subject and showcase examples of where their businesses have been engaged in local communities, charities and social enterprises.”
UK Property Forums will revisit the topic of Responsible Business at the East of England Awards at Homerton College in Cambridge on Wednesday, June 25.
