Case studies
Acorn Centre
The Acorn Centre is a voluntary organisation operating from a former public house, situated in the middle of a busy market town. At the rear of the centre is an alleyway which is used as a short cut to the bus station. This space, bounded by overhanging trees and a high wall, was a haven for crime and antisocial behaviour, hidden from public view.
There were complex land ownership issues, other residents and businesses to be consulted and involved in decision-making. The wall faced onto the river and British Waterways had to be included in any plans to change the boundary between the alley and the river.
The main cause for concern, and attraction for crime and antisocial behaviour including fly tipping, drugs, alcohol and general nuisance, was a dilapidated asbestos shed. The shed was filled with furniture, a surfboard and tyres and enquiries to establish ownership were exhausted. The local authority finally agreed to clear the area following a serious fire.
The manager of the Acorn Centre called a meeting and a plan was put together to improve the area and create a much needed public space and safe route to the bus station and town.
The wall to the river was replaced with railings and this created a lighter public space to walk through or sit and enjoy. The picnic benches are specially designed to accommodate a wheelchair and the tabletop is magnetic to enable board games to be played.
On seeing the improvements and the public response an adjacent landowner gifted his land and £30,000 to develop a ‘Pocket Park’.
The power of flowers and building on success.
For further information contact:
- Name:
- Mary Clear, Community Development Officer
- Telephone:
- 01422 393164.
