Morris+Company collaborated with University College London to develop guidance defining the emerging typology of Community Circular Economy Hubs and establishing a roadmap for their long-term delivery across towns and cities.

The research examined how these hubs can support the transition to a circular economy by bringing together complementary businesses, enabling knowledge-sharing, creating employment and delivering wider social value through hyperlocal networks. Our team mapped and documented an existing hub in Hackney, analysing the spatial, operational and organisational conditions that enable it to succeed. From this evidence, we identified principles that can inform both the retrofit of existing buildings and the design of new developments.

The study demonstrates that circular economy hubs should be treated as permanent pieces of social and economic infrastructure, rather than temporary uses on sites awaiting redevelopment. Located at the heart of communities, they provide the accessibility, visibility and critical mass needed for local closed-loop systems to thrive.

Find the guidance here.