Measuring and reporting the Social Impact a flagship 3.7 acre Central London redevelopment will deliver.
Introduction
Shoreditch Works is a flagship redevelopment project located at a pivotal City Fringe site, creating a vibrant connection between Hackney’s creative enterprise zone, Silicon Roundabout, the Fashion District, and the City of London. This ambitious initiative offers a dynamic combination of commercial, creative, civic, and community spaces, all built on Hackney’s rich tradition of craftsmanship, diversity, and entrepreneurial spirit. Recognised widely as a prime example of creative enterprise and cultural collaboration, Shoreditch Works provides a suite of mixed-use environments specifically designed to foster innovation, wellness, and economic growth.
At the heart of the project lie social and economic impact, with outcomes independently verified by transformacy using rigorous and transparent social value measurement frameworks. These methodologies ensure both accountability and clarity for all stakeholders, and underpin the project’s commitment to delivering genuine community benefit. The results of these measurements have been included in the resubmission of the Planning Application to Hackney Borough Council and will also form a core element of the Section 106 agreement.
Project Background
The creation of the Shoreditch Works site is the result of a strategic vision aimed at unlocking the full potential of a key City Fringe location. By bridging Hackney’s creative enterprise zone, Silicon Roundabout’s tech hub, the energetic Fashion District, and the financial centre of the City of London, the project is uniquely placed to encourage cross-sector collaboration. Shoreditch’s deep-rooted heritage—shaped by generations of skilled craftspeople, a rich mix of cultures, and a long tradition of entrepreneurial endeavour—further enriches this connectivity. The redevelopment both honours and reimagines these foundations, providing a platform for Shoreditch’s continued evolution.
Development Approach
The design and delivery of Shoreditch Works set a new standard for integrated urban regeneration. The scheme brings together commercial spaces, creative studios, civic amenities, and community facilities for a comprehensive approach to placemaking. Flexible workspaces, wellness centres, and public squares are complemented by affordable units for start-ups and social enterprises, promoting a culture of innovation and inclusivity. Collaboration with local artists, makers, and civic leaders has shaped a development that is not only commercially robust but also deeply responsive to local community aspirations.
Our Methodology
To accurately measure, report, and maximise the social and economic value generated by Shoreditch Works, we employ a blend of established frameworks and bespoke assessments tailored to the unique character of the development and its community. Our approach is built on three pillars:
The TOMs Framework (Themes, Outcomes, Measures): We use National and Local Social Value Measurement Frameworks, widely known as TOMs, to structure our approach to social value. The TOMs framework enables us to set clear, evidence-based targets across key themes such as job creation, skills development, community wellbeing, economic inclusion, and environmental sustainability. Each outcome is tracked using specific, quantifiable measures, allowing for objective reporting and benchmarking against best practices.
Real Estate Social Value Index (RESVI): We supplement TOMs with the Real Estate Social Value Index, a tool designed to assess the lived experience and wider impact of built assets in use. The RESVI process involves stakeholder engagement—including tenants, local organisations, and residents—who provide feedback on the actual outcomes delivered by the project. Through diagnostic grading and data analysis, we are able to highlight strengths, identify improvement opportunities, and drive continuous enhancement of social value over the project’s lifecycle.
Independent Verification and Continuous Reporting: By working with transformacy, the Shoreditch Works development were able to ensure that the Social Value Impact they report has been independently calculated and verified. This ensures accuracy, transparency, and credibility in both headline outcomes and granular reporting. By incorporating these results into formal planning submissions and Section 106 agreements, we make our social value commitments contractually binding and subject to ongoing performance monitoring.
Our methodology is iterative and adaptive, responding to stakeholder feedback and changing local needs. We regularly review and update our targets, measures, and reporting systems to ensure that the benefits of Shoreditch Works continue to align with and support the evolving aspirations of Hackney and the wider London community.
Construction Phase Impact
During construction, Shoreditch Works is expected to deliver several key outcomes. Over 600 jobs will be created, with a focus on local recruitment and fair employment practices. The project will provide 145 apprenticeships for young people from Hackney and neighbouring boroughs, giving them the opportunity to gain industry-recognised qualifications and hands-on experience. Local businesses will benefit from procurement strategies, as 30% of spend is allocated to suppliers and SMEs in the region.
Contractors will contribute over 4000 volunteer hours to provide assistance to unemployed people through career mentoring and guidance, demonstrating strong community engagement. The project also prioritises environmental sustainability, achieving BREEAM ‘Excellent’ standards, diverting 95% of demolition waste from landfill, and implementing innovative measures to reduce noise, dust, and carbon emissions. Collectively, these actions ensure that the construction phase delivers lasting economic, social, and environmental benefits for the area.
Employment Creation: Over 600 construction jobs generated, prioritising local recruitment and fair employment practices.
Apprenticeships: 145 apprenticeships delivered, supporting young people from Hackney and neighbouring boroughs.
Local Economic Value: 30% of procurement spend with local suppliers and SMEs.
Community Support: Over 4000 volunteer hours contributed by contractors to local unemployed individuals.
Environmental Sustainability: BREEAM ‘Excellent’ standards, 95% of demolition waste diverted from landfill, and measures to reduce noise, dust, and carbon emissions.
Occupation Phase Impact
In the Occupation phase, Shoreditch Works will generate significant social value by creating over 300 permanent jobs across a variety of sectors such as digital, design, retail, hospitality, and social enterprise. The project will actively support local career development through dedicated mentoring and training programmes, engaging more than 200 residents and local students each year. It will further boost the local economy, with tenants collectively contributing over £30 million annually through wages, procurement, and service contracts.
Small business incubation is a priority, with affordable units reserved for start-ups and microbusinesses, complemented by continuous business support and networking opportunities. The project will also nurture a range of community initiatives, from partnerships with schools and charities to free public workshops and cultural festivals. A strong commitment to environmental sustainability will be maintained through features such as green roofs, comprehensive cycling facilities, and a zero waste to landfill policy. These measures ensure that the Occupation phase delivers enduring economic, social, and environmental benefits for Shoreditch and the wider community.
Ongoing Employment: Over 300 permanent jobs supported across diverse sectors.
Career Support: Mentoring and training for 200+ residents and local students annually.
Local Economic Value: Tenants contribute over £30 million per annum to the local economy.
Small Business Incubation: affordable units for start-ups and microbusinesses, with ongoing support and access to finance.
Community Initiatives: Partnerships with local schools, arts organisations, and charities, including free public workshops, exhibitions, and cultural festivals.
Environmental Benefits: Green roofs, extensive cycling facilities, and a zero waste to landfill policy.
Conclusion
Shoreditch Works demonstrates the potential of strategic development to deliver tangible, lasting benefits for businesses, communities, and the wider city. By combining commercial ambition with creative energy, civic responsibility, and a deep respect for local history, the project sets a new standard for urban regeneration on the City Fringe.
The use of robust, independently verified social value measurement—now formally part of both the resubmitted Planning Application to Hackney Borough Council and the Section 106 agreement—provides stakeholders and investors with confidence that Shoreditch Works fulfils its promises and advances the shared vision for a more inclusive, innovative, and sustainable London.