Member Article

Living spaces transforms North East neighbourhoods

A £30million Government initiative has enabled many people in the North East to change their surroundings for the better. The Living Spaces programme has given thousands of people the opportunity to revitalise open spaces in their community.

The children and young people of the Carlin How area of Saltburn, East Cleveland, have been awarded a grant of £25,000 towards a superb new recreation area. The idea for the project came from the youngsters themselves, who took a petition to the local community forum asking for somewhere safe to play. Four years further on, the site boasts open grass spaces, a trim trail, equipment for exercise and play and areas for plants and wildlife. A multi-use games area is also well used by the local Whitecliffe Primary school and the community group has developed a booking system for out of school hours use.

Green Spaces Minister Kay Andrews said: “Living Space has given thousands of people in the North East the opportunity to transform their own neighbourhoods. Whether it’s a new skate park for youngsters or a community garden, Living Spaces has made a real difference to the local environment and people’s quality of life. At the same time, it has encouraged people to take pride in where they live.”

Communities and local government worked closely with environmental charity Groundwork, who managed the Living Spaces scheme with support from GreenSpace.

Tony Hawkhead, Chief Executive of Groundwork, said: “Living Spaces has demonstrated just what can be achieved by communities when they’re given the resources and support to improve their local environment. The programme has given hundreds of groups the opportunity to transform their neighbourhoods and there have been some really inspirational projects. Empowering communities to bring about lasting change is what Groundwork is all about, and we’re proud to have played our part in the success of Living Spaces.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Ruth Mitchell .