Volunteer with our Heritage Watch Group
Cambridge’s built heritage tells the story of the city, its people, and the planning, design, and stewardship principles that have shaped its character over generations.
We are looking for volunteers to join our Heritage Watch Group, a small, committed team that helps protect, celebrate, and improve the historic built environment of Cambridge and its surrounding area.
This role is ideal for someone with experience or knowledge in heritage, planning, architecture, design, or the historic built environment, and a genuine interest in how places evolve over time. We are particularly keen to hear from people who enjoy careful analysis, constructive debate, and contributing their expertise to CPPF’s responses to planning proposals and wider discussions about the city’s future.
What the Heritage Watch Group does
The Group plays an active and influential role in shaping Cambridge’s future. Work is varied and intellectually engaging, and may include:
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Reviewing and responding to planning applications and development proposals
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Commenting on Local Plan consultations and strategic planning issues
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Contributing to heritage campaigns or public-facing events
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Providing informed input to support the charity’s planning and advocacy work
The Group is made up of 6–10 members, supported by the charity’s Principal Planning Officer. It meets quarterly, with discussion and collaboration continuing by email between meetings. Cambridge Past, Present & Future has long-established, constructive relationships with both Cambridge City Council and South Cambridgeshire District Council, meaning this work is taken seriously and genuinely feeds into decision-making.
Chair role opportunity
We are also currently seeking a Chair for the Heritage Watch Group. This is a chance to help guide discussions, shape priorities, and support the Group’s collective voice. If you enjoy facilitating thoughtful conversation and providing calm leadership, we would love to hear from you.
Time commitment
We ask volunteers to commit to the Group for at least three years, allowing continuity and depth of impact.
Interested?
If you would like to volunteer, please email planning@cambridgeppf.org, telling us a little about your relevant experience and what draws you to this work. If it feels like a good fit, we will invite you to an informal conversation at a mutually convenient time, so we can explore the role together and ensure it’s right for you.
This is a chance to use your knowledge where it truly matters, helping Cambridge grow without losing what makes it special.
