Beyond consultation: The net zero engagement journey
Building understanding of public priorities for infrastructure in the South West
Infrastructure shapes everyday life but expectations are changing. Communities increasingly want to know not just what is being built, but why, for whom, and how it will affect them locally. Securing support today depends on relevance, trust, transparency and meaningful engagement, not just technical detail.
SWIP and ICE South West, in partnership with Copper Consultancy and BMG Research, have produced a report exploring how people across the region understand, perceive and engage with infrastructure and the transition to net zero.
Based on a demographically representative survey of 1,000 South West residents, the report provides a robust evidence base on public attitudes and what this means for how we communicate, engage and build support for the infrastructure the region needs.
Key findings
- Generational divides matter – Younger people are more supportive of infrastructure and net zero, but are far less likely to engage through traditional channels, while older audiences are more visible but more conditional in their support.
- Relevance drives buy-in – People are more likely to support infrastructure that feels visible, understandable and directly connected to their everyday lives.
- Trust and transparency are critical – Clear communication, honesty about disruption and visible responsiveness to community feedback are essential for building confidence.
- Net zero must feel immediate – Support is stronger when framed around tangible local benefits today, rather than long-term, abstract global goals.
- Engagement needs to evolve – Current approaches are missing key audiences, highlighting the need for more accessible, continuous and audience-led engagement.
Improving how we engage communities
The report highlights practical steps to strengthen engagement and build broader, more representative support:
- Make benefits tangible and local – connect infrastructure to outcomes people can see and feel.
- Build understanding before asking for views – communicate clearly and accessibly.
- Be transparent about trade-offs – honesty builds credibility.
- Engage continuously, not just at consultation points.
- Rethink channels and formats – especially to reach underrepresented audiences.
Read the report
Download Beyond Consultation: The Net Zero Engagement Journey to explore the full findings, detailed analysis and recommendations for improving how we engage communities across the South West.