In touch community report 2006

In the community

In 2005 the Unicorn Theatre moved into its new home in More London, the prestigious riverside development on the south bank of the Thames between London Bridge and the Tower of London. The Unicorn is a children’s theatre and education centre, and its new building was purpose-built for children to use. It is a tangible example of innovation, and we are pleased to have had the chance to support its work through our Charitable Foundation.

No less so because soon we shall be neighbours. In 2007 we move to 3 More London, our new international headquarters, designed by Foster and Partners. We are delighted to be a part of the urban regeneration taking place in this part of London. More London is a completely new development in one of London’s oldest neighbourhoods. It’s near theatres, cafés, shops and museums; it’s also near homes and schools. We are joining a local community, adding to the rich history of the area.

This move is our first chance as a major organisation to have a say about the impact on the environment that our headquarters will make. Our building conforms to regulations so new that they will not come into force until well after work on the building is complete. The whole space will be accessible for everyone. Our environmental policy is under review to embrace new thinking about issues like carbon offsetting, sustainability and the Equator Principles. We are preparing for More London with an eye to the future.

Taking up residence by the river

The prospect of moving to More London has reignited the debate on what we mean by our environmental awareness. We already recycle paper; this move gives us the opportunity to recycle on a much larger scale. We already promote gym membership and sporting activities; this move enables us to do that and more besides, by encouraging people to cycle in, for instance. We already turn off the lights: this move allows us to address the major issue of energy consumption and carbon emissions by devising smarter ways of consuming our heating, lighting and insulation.

Deirdre Walker
London managing partner