Design Council CABE has awarded Beam two grants from the Neighbourhood Projects and Design Review Small Grants Programmes, to work with the residents of South Kirkby to raise the design quality of a neglected site formerly used for allotments, ‘The Lockies'.
Beam is working in partnership with South Kirkby Community Association, Wakefield MDC, and Chevin Housing Association to develop a vision and outline plans for the future of the underused site. The plans will then be taken to Wakefield's Design Review panel of design experts for comment.
Members of the Community Association have identified this plot of land through previous environmental appraisal, as having the potential to play an important part in the neighbourhood. This project will help residents shape this potential by means of the design process.
The project will take place between Autumn 2011 and Spring 2012 and will include opportunities for local residents to participate in creative workshops to contribute their ideas for the future of the site, whilst gaining valuable knowledge and skills within the design and planning process. Other communities in Wakefield may also be invited to take part.
Peter Buttree, resident and Chair of South Kirkby Community Association said: "We're very excited about this new project, which is going to have unique input from Beam. We hope everybody in our area will get involved in this fantastic opportunity to ‘Transform the Lockies'."
Robert Powell, Creative Director of Beam, said:"Understanding design and the planning process can really help local people to have a voice in the future of their neighbourhoods. Having worked extensively throughout Yorkshire, we are delighted to have this opportunity to work closely with a Wakefield community, and a number of partners."