Join discussion on Colchester housing for research project

A new citizens’ assembly in Colchester is inviting local residents to turn their experiences into real ideas on housing, as part of a major research project at the University of Essex.

Residents are invited to sign up for the Colchester citizens' assembly on housing, which will aim to provide practical recommendations on what improvements need to be made to housing.

Participants will take part in two online and one in-person session, where they will be encouraged to get involved in an open discussion on housing issues in Colchester and share their own experiences.

The initiative forms part of a wider research project, EU-CIEMBLY, which is being carried out by Essex Law School’s Dr Niall O’Connor and Dr Anastasia Karatzia, and Essex Business School’s Professor Ileana Steccolini, supported by Dr. Rebecca Warren.

The €3million project, funded by Horizon Europe, addresses the need for new forms of citizens’ participation and deliberation across – and beyond – Europe.

Citizens’ assemblies feature informed discussions by members of the public which lead to recommendations on policies relating to a range of everyday issues.

Dr. O’Connor said: “Housing affects all of us, so the conversation about Colchester’s future should directly include the local community.

"That’s the idea behind the citizens assembly in Colchester, which will bring together Colchester residents to learn about housing, share experiences, and develop ideas together.”

He added: “We are studying how every participant’s voice can be heard and considered in the discussions taking place within citizens’ assemblies.”

Dr. Karatzia said: “No prior specialist knowledge or expertise is needed to participate. The assembly has been planned in such a way to ensure that discussions are respectful and constructive.”

Participants must take part in all three sessions to be eligible for a £50 Amazon voucher and certificate of participation.

The sessions take place at the following times:

• Tuesday 24 February, 5.30pm – 8.30pm (Online)
• Saturday 28 February, 10am – 4pm (in person at the Colchester Campus, lunch will be provided)
• Tuesday 10 March, 5.30pm – 8.30pm (Online)

To register, visit the survey link available here.

If you want to learn more, feel free to email the team at euciembly@essex.ac.uk.