Democratising Science: Community focused design supporting STEM learning

DEMOCRATISING SCIENCE

Community focused design supporting STEM learning

Authors:

Fiona Grieve Scott Brownrigg

William

Naismith Hoare Lea

Ro Khosla-Stevens Hoare Lea

SCOTT BROWNRIGG | DEMOCRATISING SCIENCE

Introduction

Seeking diverse perspectives

Inclusive design

Spaces for learning Wider community impact

Conclusion

INTRODUCTION

In today's dynamic and interconnected world, the democratisation of science stands as a pivotal endeavour, aiming to break down historical barriers and empower communities through Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics (STEM). At the heart of this lies a recognition: true progress in science cannot be achieved in isolation, but rather through the inclusive engagement of diverse voices and perspectives.

In the pursuit to democratise science in the built environment, our community-focused design ethos seeks to align with the intricate needs of each place to directly impact lives and foster sustainable development.

By channelling resources into initiatives that address tangible needs and actively involve local people in the design process, we forge stronger bonds with communities, enable social identity, and embed a sense of social responsibility and dedication to sustainable development into the very fabric of our projects.

As we break down boundaries, embrace diversity, and create inclusive environments, we strive to cultivate workplaces where every individual can contribute their unique talents to the collective pursuit of scientific excellence.

Through collaborative efforts and a commitment to continuous improvement, we embark on a journey towards a future where the benefits of science are accessible to all, enriching lives and shaping a brighter, more equitable world.

SEEKING DIVERSE PERSPECTIVES

Understanding the area

Often social value is reduced to a number; how many jobs a project supports and how many new facilities are created. Truly delivering social value involves a more nuanced approach; it requires a comprehensive understanding of the specific needs, identity, and dynamics of the area. Rather than competing with local businesses, our goal should be to strengthen the local economy by identifying areas where support is needed, and helping to inspire and empower members of society who are often marginalised and overlooked. Connecting communities with opportunities in the science sector can have farreaching benefits, extending beyond economic prosperity to enhance quality of life and foster sustainable development.

It is critical to begin the engagement process early. Facilitating community involvement can improve innovation through the unique blend of people who come together in a place. So-called place-based innovation can lead to better outcomes as the community feels engaged and has a sense of belonging and ownership. This means implementing context specific solutions and incorporating spaces within buildings which are more responsive to change and can grow and evolve with the community. Participatory design also contributes to skills building and job creation – again place-based so the opportunities are intrinsically connected to community needs and interests because there is a bottom-up, as well as top-down, approach. Otherwise, we risk enforcing a privileged perspective of what ‘good’ is and not recognising or working with the more marginalised members of society (where real social value can be created).

Community engagement

Delivering pre- and post-occupancy evaluations and actively listening to perspectives and incorporating feedback can create spaces that are genuinely useful and reflective of community needs. This collaborative process allows us to learn from both successes and challenges, so we are armed with the knowledge to do better next time. Identifying and engaging with the ‘community’ in any project, whether it pertains to life sciences or other endeavours, requires a nuanced approach that acknowledges the diversity and complexity of community dynamics. A broad and inclusive definition of community should be adopted, encompassing various stakeholders who may be affected by or have a stake in the project. This can include residents, local businesses, community organisations, advocacy groups, councillors, cultural and religious institutions, schools, science education charities and other relevant entities.

To reach out to a diverse breadth of stakeholders requires a multipronged approach with a combination of methods such as community meetings, surveys, focus groups, online platforms, and newsletters. However, for engagement to really work we need to start with immersion and listening. Our role is to ‘get to know’ members of society by developing reciprocal relationships with local people through a mutually beneficial engagement process. It is essential to recognise that different groups within the community may have distinct perspectives, priorities, and needs. Therefore, efforts should be made to ensure representation and participation from a wide range of voices, with a focus on fostering inclusivity, transparency, and meaningful dialogue. By actively engaging with the community in this manner, projects can better reflect local values, address local concerns, and ultimately contribute to positive social value and impact by creating something that benefits the people of the area, not just the investors.

CASE STUDY:

Wootton Science Park, Oxfordshire

The introduction of specialised science facilities often brings transformative changes to local landscapes. The success of these developments hinges not only on scientific advancement but also on their integration within existing communities. In this case study, we explore the approach taken by Hartwell (a client of Scott Brownrigg and Hoare Lea), which prioritises community inclusion and engagement, ensuring that the benefits of progress extend far beyond laboratory walls.

At the heart of this approach lies a commitment to understanding and responding to the needs of the community. From the outset, the development process has embraced local input, recognising the unique character and dynamics

of the area. This engagement isn't superficial; it's embedded in the project's ethos. Hartwell went door to door engaging with residents and inviting them to a public consultation. These concerns were talked through with the members of the public, with the project team providing reassurance that the project is championing alternative methods of transport to cars, through the provision of active travel infrastructure and end of journey facilities, has undertaken solar studies to evaluate the minimal overshading risk onto the surrounding areas, and that the project is actively looking to encourage members of the public to access and use the facilities on site, with the proposed development including amenity space and increased access routes into and through the site. There was an underlying feeling that the local residents simply wanted to

know more about the project, with several stating the development would be a positive outcome for the local area.

The amenities at Wootton directly address community needs. In this case, the inclusion of a gym and bistro, accessible to all, fills a void within the area. By incorporating a hub within the development, the growing village is provided with useful amenities and a significant improvement to the aesthetics of the previously developed site.

Transport accessibility has emerged as a key consideration for the development.

Conversations with the local bus providers are currently underway, with the basis of discussion being to extend the bus route to allow the buses

a safer and more convenient place to turn, and provide direct transport links to the park.

In conclusion, this case study illustrates the transformative potential of inclusive design in science and technology developments. By prioritising community inclusion, social value, and environmental sustainability, projects can transcend the traditional boundaries between science and society, fostering vibrant, resilient communities that thrive in harmony with scientific progress.

Wootton Science Park

INCLUSIVE DESIGN

Breaking down barriers

Our commitment to excellence should extend beyond the vertical walls of our buildings; it must encompass the ground upon which we stand. Through thoughtful landscaping and urban design, we can create not only a beautiful aesthetic but also provide safety and connectivity with our surroundings. By blurring the lines between public and private realms, we foster a sense of cohesion, inviting residents to reclaim and redefine space giving more people access to high quality public and green spaces. This is all about considering security through a social lens – keeping everyone safe, as opposed to keeping certain people out.

Foster interaction among scientists, students, and visitors alike, with active frontages inviting passersby to engage. Incorporate a variety of spaces for:

• learning

• interaction

• relaxation

• active lifestyles

• access to nature

Amenity spaces are integral, not only for employee satisfaction but also for attracting talent and serving community needs. Emphasising the importance of co-designing spaces with input from the community, ensuring that amenities and facilities reflect their needs and preferences not what we as designers assume they need. Adaptable spaces can ensure that developments can easily transform to serve various purposes as requirements evolve providing a long-term sustainable development for all the community. Inclusivity is key to enabling diverse perspectives and fuelling both social justice and innovation – addressing barriers to participation in science by also ensuring amenity spaces can be used by all.

Science facilities have higher security, safety and regulatory considerations than the average

workplace that needs to be considered – liquid nitrogen tanks, gas bottle stores, chemical storage, intellectual property protection etc. We must design spaces where people don't need to be near sensitive areas with careful consideration for desire lines. Utilising defensive planting can effectively establish boundaries without imposing a harsh barrier, creating a more inviting and aesthetically pleasing environment. By incorporating discrete security features and robust enclosures security can blend seamlessly into the overall design without making users feel unwelcome. Implementing layers of security within the site and buildings, from the outer perimeter to the reception to an individual tenant space can tailor security measures to the requirements of the tenant whilst still providing flexibility and freedom of movement. Free movement around the site is essential in promoting community focused design.

Diversifying spaces

A science ecosystem is an intricate web of interconnected entities, resources, and activities that collectively support innovation. Traditionally, these ecosystems encompass an array of stakeholders, research institutions, universities, government agencies, industry partners, startups and incubators. We must expand this further, include affordable workspace into this ecosystem to promote inclusivity, diversify stakeholders, and enable startups and small businesses to access essential resources and knowledge. We must ensure that access to affordable space is well integrated, not segregated from the main uses. This can also enable new perspectives and interesting collaboration which contribute to innovation. Add education to this mix and the ecosystem cultivates the future workforce to inspire and empower the next generation. Ultimately a diverse ecosystem advances scientific research, drives technological progress, and fuels economic development.

SPACES FOR LEARNING

Putting science on show

Creating access to dynamic and engaging learning environments that can accommodate elements of “science on show” into the fabric of the scheme to add an exciting dimension and allow visitors to witness scientific research and discovery firsthand. This could include observation decks, interactive displays, and transparent laboratories. Science on show has the power to inspire, educate, and empower individuals and communities, fostering a culture of scientific curiosity, inquiry, and engagement that benefits society as a whole.

Learning labs

By incorporating a learning lab into the scheme students from a broad spectrum, encompassing various age groups benefit from the facilities. It offers the future generation access to best in class facilities and world class professionals, fostering inspiration and engagement in science across the wider community. This can help bridge the gap between education and industry.

WIDER COMMUNITY IMPACT

Supporting wider initiatives

Opportunities to activate social value in the built environment span all stages of a project lifecycle, whether in design, construction, or operation. A Section 106 agreement is an opportunity; it does not have to be an obligation. We can seize the chance to play an active role in improving the local community by channelling resources towards initiatives that require a hands-on understanding of where these funds are spent rather than just contributions. Embracing the opportunity to deliver the initiatives as part of the contract build will strengthen community relations and embed a sense of social responsibility for the long term.

Accessible infrastructure

Prioritise enhancements that serve the entire community, not solely individuals within your development by:

• Directing resources towards enhancing the local bus network, rather than implementing a minibus exclusively accessible to tenants

• Expanding coverage and contributing to economic development for the whole area, not just one site

• Upgrading sustainable transport systems through improvements to the public footpath and cycleway network

• Reducing traffic and providing easy access to work contributes to the wellbeing of building occupants and wider community

Enriching the neighbourhood

Every town, village and city in the UK suffers from forgotten spaces that sit in neglect due to budget constraints and shifting priorities. Addressing neglect in urban cities requires a concerted effort. Improved access to greenspace can bolster the local ecosystem, and further space for physical activity, relaxation and social interaction can contribute to resident health and wellbeing. As synergies between climate resilience, nature recovery and wellbeing only become clearer, green spaces must be accessible to all. Maintained parks and urban realm deter anti-social behaviour and generally contribute to the appeal of the neighbourhood. By encompassing forgotten areas of neglect into the red line, the project will transform the surrounding area creating vibrant, thriving spaces that enrich the lives of residents and visitors alike. For example, a piece of public art that involves local artists and the community in the design process creates a richer environment fostering pride, belonging and civic engagement.

Sustainable Transport Concept Diagram

CASE STUDY:

Eastpoint Business Park, Oxford

The key to being successful in delivering social value lies in understanding and addressing the specific needs and aspirations of the communities involved. In this case study, Railpen’s (a client of Scott Brownrigg and Hoare Lea) place-based approach, which seeks to initiate change beyond the red line in collaboration with its neighbours, takes centre stage. Community engagement is a priority that aims to cultivate a sense of belonging, utilise STEM to empower its community, all while dismantling both physical and perceived barriers that often arise with specialised science facilities.

The first step in this process was to remove the physical barriers preventing people walking through the site and create new entrances and desire lines. The next was to implement strategies that would draw people in. Establishing enhancements in the paths outside the site, running as far as the local residential areas, to embed the site into the neighbourhood walking routes. Activating key frontages to encourage passersby to come and witness the scientific research. Finally, creating destinations for those in the wider community through access to green space, an accessible centralised building that the community can use and space for educaton in the heart of the site. These spaces were the primary discussion point throughout public consultation with residents as they imparted ideas on how and what was needed in the design to make these spaces work for their community.

In collaboration with community members and residents, including primary and secondary schools, the client embarked on an initiative to establish a dynamic educational relationship for the scheme. As part of this work the "Learning Lab" was created, aimed at inspiring passion for science among youths in the local area. This innovative facility will offer access to resources and knowledge beyond the usual school offerings. Developed in conjunction with local educational institutions and bolstered by the

backing of pioneering STEM businesses, the ‘Learning Lab’ will enrich the educational offering in the area fostering a new generation of aspiring scientists.

Through stakeholder meetings, we were able to determine a key concern in the area was the cycle safety. By listening to these concerns, we were able to implement a change to the scheme that provides a safer journey for everyone. In this case, through the creation of a hybrid footpath cycleway straddling the public footpath and site land. Public transport accessibility was also a key part of this conversation. Conversations with the local bus providers are currently underway at the time of writing, with the main efforts for improvement focused on improving local bus infrastructure to provide a more reliable service for residents and tenants alike not just focusing on tenants.

The development aspires to facilitate the urban re-wilding of a local neglected area to the site. The intention to include features such as fruit trees and herb gardens to encourage engagement with growing food, as well as strategic defensive planting and clear sight lines to address local concerns with safety walking through the space. Ideas for an Ecological Learning Garden including bug hotels and log piles, allow children to actively participate in activities to deepen their understanding of ecosystems and biodiversity. Through these initiatives, the development hopes to not only enhance the physical environment but also contributes to the well-being of the local community.

In conclusion, this case study illustrates the power of listening and responding to community input to create a meaningful community focused development. By utilising community inclusion as a design tool, the project seeks to empower and inspire its community through science creating a symbiotic relationship that lasts long beyond the design process.

CONCLUSION

Incorporating community needs and aspirations into new science development projects is essential for delivering meaningful community focused design. Through thoughtful design, collaborative and inclusive practices, and a commitment to scientific excellence and STEM learning, we can create environments that inspire creativity, promote lifelong learning, and empower individuals to thrive in an ever-evolving world. The life science sector has a wealth of resources to tap into. Embracing a sciencefocused approach in community development is not just about building structures; it's about building a future where science serves as a catalyst for positive change and collective wellbeing �