Survey to help shape future of community venue
COMMUNITY groups, charities, social enterprises and other mission-driven organisations across Edinburgh are being asked to help shape the future of an important conference venue serving the city’s third sector.
Norton Park has launched a new survey as it explores investment in, improvements to and potential changes to its conference facilities, with the aim of ensuring the space continues to meet organisations’ needs beyond 2026.
The research will help inform a business case and future plans for the building, with a focus on creating affordable, useful and impactful space for organisations working to make a positive difference in their communities.
Keith Robertson, Chief Executive of Norton Park, said: “Norton Park has a long history of supporting Edinburgh’s third sector and community organisations.
“As needs evolve, it is important that our facilities evolve too. We want to hear directly from the organisations that use these kinds of spaces so we can ensure any future investment is shaped by demand, delivers genuine value and creates lasting impact for the sector.”
The study is being supported by Community Enterprise and Fraser Livingstone Architects, which have been commissioned to undertake research and develop a business plan for the venue’s future.
A key part of the project is understanding what charities, community organisations, social enterprises and other third sector bodies need from conference, meeting, training and event facilities in the years ahead.
The survey is open to charities, voluntary organisations, community groups, social enterprises and other mission-led organisations operating in Edinburgh. Responses will help identify current needs, gaps in provision and opportunities for future development.
It takes just a few minutes to complete and is intended to give organisations across the city an opportunity to influence future decisions about the conference venue.
The research will also help ensure local organisations are at the heart of decisions about how the building and its facilities could develop in future.
Douglas Westwater of Community Enterprise said: “Third sector organisations are facing increasing pressures, from rising costs to changing ways of working.
“This survey is an opportunity for organisations to tell us what they need from affordable conference, meeting and event space in Edinburgh.
“Whether you are a small community group, a growing social enterprise or an established charity, your views will help shape future decisions about the venue.”
Feedback gathered through the research will contribute to the work being undertaken by Community Enterprise and Fraser Livingstone Architects as they consider the business case and future plans for the venue.
Norton Park is renowned as the home of charities in Edinburgh and currently accommodates over 25 third sector organisations.
To take part in the survey, visit Future Sector Survey.