About Us

Mission

Chi-Lab brings together researchers, professionals, public bodies and communities to investigate local challenges, develop cross-disciplinary knowledge and translate that knowledge into theoretical and real proposals, tools and interventions grounded in place. Chi-Lab connects interdisciplinary research, practice, policy makers and the community — drawing international researchers and practitioners to Chichester — to develop sustainable holistic strategies and solutions for the coastal and urban challenges the area faces.

Purpose

To use the challenges of Chichester and its immediate rural and coastal context to address the question ‘what a sustainable and successful coastal city could look like’, balancing urban, agricultural, employment, housing and coastal challenges.

Vision

A thriving coastal region where harbour, city and Downs are at the forefront in anticipating, adapting and absorbing changes in climate to come.

Our Team

Directors
Advisors
External Advisors
Nicholas Backhouse
Nick has lived in the Chichester area with his family for the past 20 years and is a keen rower and user of the harbour and all its surroundings.
Carolyn Cobbold
Dr Carolyn Cobbold, a journalist was named in 2020 on BBC Radio 4's Woman's Hour Power List for her climate mitigation work. Carolyn lives locally and is the Founding Director of the Manhood Peninsula Partnership. She studied mechanical engineering at Imperial college and holds a PhD in the history of science from Cambridge University.