Living Atlas of Community Activism and Engagement

From May to September 2024, we conducted a series of in-depth interviews with 22 local historians, artists, archivists, scholars, community groups and organisations to understand the history of community engagement and activism in relation to the built environment in Cambridge as well as its surrounding rural and natural areas. The data collected from the interviews and archival research resulted into a timeline of community activities and projects since 1927 (see below). This timeline, titled ‘Living Atlas of Community Activism and Engagement’, traces the collective efforts and the history of community engagement and activism that has shaped the built environment and urban identity of Cambridge and surrounding areas. Far from a definitive record, this living atlas remains open. We invite you to share your local knowledge – adding more stories, projects, and voices to this unfolding narrative of place-making and participation.

You can view the original atlas at our pop-up space at the Grafton, or the enlarged digital version via here.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to all the community groups who generously shared their stories with us.