The vision included:
icecream architecture partnered with landscape architects from GRAFT and led the development of a feasibility study, design proposals, and business plan to build a strong case for the community buyout of the land for further sustainable development.
Three phases of consultation engaged with residents:
- Gather needs, wants and ideas for the future site to shop, grow and play.
- Community feedback and ideation on initial concepts for designs and functions of the space.
- Community feedback and ideation on the detailed designs and plan for community ownership and management.
The project took place during pandemic restrictions and transitioned from in-person events to online consultation sessions. We also created a website for online interactive consultations, which was updated at every stage of the process. It also provided progress updates along with social media posts. Posters and flyers were also distributed on the ground to try to reach as many residents as possible. The BCL group played a crucial role in engaging the local community in the design process.
The project's output included a feasibility study, which provided a site analysis, a community description, and an assessment of challenges. A vision and design report for the site, which was developed in collaboration with the community. And a business plan for the future management of the site, which included a shop, a garden for growing food, and a natural play area.
The design of the community space proposal for the site will address Blaeloch Community Land’s six aims:
a. Raise aspirations of the local community to develop a neighbourhood asset
b. Tackle food injustice through a sustainable social enterprise
c. Foster a creative approach to personal development, life learning, self-sufficiency and teamwork
d. Champion local placemaking, to promote community pride in the neighbourhood
e. Contribute to the circulate economy, reducing waste
f. Supporting biodiversity, for our neighbourhood and the wider world
The overall site development was based on a sustainable core value, encompassing land development, use development, and management, as well as its impact on the local community.
