The client 

The North West Cambridge Development is the largest capital project in the history of the University of Cambridge. The vision; to create a new district and extension to the city, centred around a mixed academic and urban community.

The brief

Following years of planning and construction, the heart of this new district was ready to welcome residents and the local and wider community. A day of events linked to Open Cambridge would mark this milestone and showcase Eddington, as the North West Cambridge Development was now to be known.

The team required our expertise to deliver two crucial launch events which would top and tail Open Eddington:

• A morning reception to welcome stakeholders and partners to Eddington

• An evening celebration for the project team and Eddington's new residents

The main event

After site visits, thorough conception meetings, and presentation of our creative ideas, we were on the front-foot to deliver on NWCD’s event objectives.

Both events were to be held in Eddington's market square, in the empty shell of a retail unit. Taking this truly blank canvas we transformed the space into an industrial chic venue, tailored to two completely different audiences.

Using our vast network of trusted Cambridgeshire-based suppliers we put together the key elements of the events. Taking the launch through the transition of the formal day event to the evening celebration, we tailored all aspects to suit the audiences including the catering requirements, entertainment and decor.

Our team were first on site and the last to leave, making sure the full end-to-end event management was delivered. We welcomed guests, managed suppliers and led the setup/turnaround/pack down - allowing the NWCD to concentrate on Open Eddington.

The results

Both events were a huge success and formed an integral part of Open Eddington. The celebrations were polar opposites but with clever planning and smart budgeting across suppliers, the venue acted as a chameleon.

VIP guests such as MPs Daniel Zeichner and Heidi Allen attended the morning launch event, and the project team mingled with new residents at the evening reception.

We embraced the challenge of the blank space that would host these events. From essential amenities such as electricity and running water, the creation of a kitchen area and stage, to branded finishing touches that gave guests a reminder of the day.

It was an absolute pleasure to work with the team on this project. As residents of Cambridge ourselves, we were honoured to welcome this exciting new town to the city.

Many thanks to Charlie from Pro Event Hire for taking some of these images just before the event.