New pilot programme will provide businesses and practitioners with access to industry-leading knowledge and skills platform

Waverley Borough Council (WBC), in partnership with Guildford Borough Council (GBC), is working with Farnham-based, award-winning business Mesh Energy to support the growth of the local green economy through an innovative new digital platform.

The one-year pilot programme will provide built environment businesses, practitioners, and council staff across both boroughs with free access to Meshwork, a collaborative platform focused on sustainable development and best practice in the built environment.

As part of the initiative, Waverley and Guildford Borough Councils will offer unlimited Meshwork licences for businesses and practitioners in the area for a 12-month period. Access will be provided via a dedicated affiliate link and coupon, alongside a jointly branded registration page highlighting the councils’ sponsorship of the programme.

Participants will benefit from guided onboarding and a structured welcome process, ensuring they are supported from the outset and able to make the most of the platform.

All members joining through the scheme will receive unlimited access to:

• The Meshwork Community Hub
• CPD Essentials training resources
• A wide-ranging library of sustainability-focused content
• New events and learning opportunities curated by Mesh Energy
• The platform is designed to connect professionals across the built environment sector, enabling them to share knowledge, build skills, and collaborate to deliver more sustainable outcomes.

This initiative is a key priority within Waverley Borough Council’s Economic Development Action Plan (2025–26), supporting the council’s ambition to strengthen the green economy and drive innovation in sustainable development.  Guildford and Waverley Borough Council’s Economic Development Strategies both work towards supporting Thriving and Green Economies. One of the strategy action plan priorities for 2026 is to “Harness the Green Economy Revolution” and support build environment specialists and businesses.

Councillor Liz Townsend BEM, Waverley Borough Council’s Deputy Leader and Portfolio Holder for Planning and Economic Development, said:

“This initiative is a major step forward in strengthening our local green economy. By providing access to high-quality training, resources and networks, we are helping businesses to innovate, grow, and lead the way in sustainable development, a key priority within our Economic Development Action Plan.”

Councillor Adam Duce, Waverley Borough Council’s Portfolio Holder for Environment and Sustainability, added:

“Supporting the transition to a more sustainable built environment is essential if we are to meet our climate ambitions. This partnership gives local businesses and professionals access to the knowledge and tools they need to adopt greener practices and deliver lasting environmental benefits across our boroughs.”

Mesh Energy, based in Farnham, is widely recognised for its expertise in sustainable building and retrofit. Through the Meshwork platform, it brings together professionals from across the sector to accelerate learning and improve sustainability outcomes.

Councillor Angela Goodwin, Lead Councillor for Environment and Sustainability at Guildford Borough Council, added:
“Tackling climate change requires practical action and strong partnerships. This initiative will equip professionals across our borough with the knowledge and confidence to embed sustainability into their projects, helping to reduce emissions and create a more resilient built environment for our communities.”

To find out more about the pilot programme and how to sign up, visit Join the Community Hub | Meshwork | Meshwork.  You can also visit our Business Waverley website Welcome to Waverley for business. for more information and register for our regular business enewsletter there too.

Additional information:

What is "sustainability"?

Sustainability means meeting today's needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet theirs. It involves balancing environmental protection, economic growth and social wellbeing.

What is a "resilient built environment"?

A resilient built environment is one where buildings and infrastructure are designed to withstand and adapt to challenges like climate change and extreme weather, while continuing to support the communities that use them