Testing new uses for underused public spaces to raise long-term ambitions

Meanwhile use projects are an established way for local authorities to trial new uses, create short-term value and opportunities for communities to take ownership of underused places. How these types of projects are planned in collaboration with communities, how they are delivered and evaluated, and their connection to longer-term strategies is critical to their success.

This Case Study is based on work carried out by Adam Summerfield and Ramiro Levy during two year-long placements at Westminster City Council between 2018-2020, in placeshaping roles. It reflects on the lessons learnt from delivering a meanwhile use project to create short-term impacts along an underused canalside, describing a three-stage approach to build a longer-term vision.