In 2013 we reclaimed a derelict street to create Lamlash Garden, which is now at the heart of a growing network of Southwark's green walking and cycling routes. Our borough’s population is projected to increase by almost 34,000 by 2026, and we want to balance the major developments at Elephant and Castle with community spaces where people can breathe fresh air, socialise, and access jobs, skills and volunteering opportunities. We want to adapt two local sites, including a large yard (formerly known as Castle Place) and Fives Court, currently used for parking, storage – and fly-tipping! – to create an amazing new neighbourhood hub, linking inspirational green spaces with a community centre and work studios. Everyone will have the chance to contribute and benefit from our off-pitch new mix, in a dynamic revival of the Elephant’s heritage. We will champion health and well-being, learning and skills, and recreation and sociability, for the benefit of all who live, work and visit here.

What we'll deliver:

• Commission a feasibility study to tell us how our neighbourhood hub will be built, including planning and build costs.
• Engage our local community via a series of pop-up public events.
• Create a document and film which places our neighbourhood history in context and builds excitement for its future.
• Ensure the plans reflect the needs and wishes of our local community.
• Continue to champion our project and make it happen!

Why it's a great idea:

The Castle Place Project focuses on a little network of streets beside the formerly notorious Elephant and Castle shopping centre, and we see our idea as a friendly, community-scaled response to the massive development happening in the area. We believe that it’s impossible to create a strong community without a community space, and that safe green places, where people can breathe in the heart of the city, are increasingly vital. Linking these to a social space where people can socialise, work, volunteer and learn new skills will bring major health, environmental, cultural and business benefits to our area. The level of support and encouragement from residents, stakeholders and our local councillors has been amazing. This feasibility study is the next vital stage to ensure we keep up the momentum and the project happens. Join us to help create a dynamic, accessible, locally led neighbourhood hub, for the benefit of all who live, work and visit here – now and in the future!

Steps to get it done:

• Engage the local community in consultation: door knocking, surveys, meetings, pop-up events and an online campaign
• Develop and create a website for the project that will provide online presence for the feasibility study
• Develop design proposals for the spaces and test ideas with the local community
• Investigate site constraints and issues, statutory requirements, topographical and underground surveys
• Collate the findings from consultations and present at follow-up events and online feedback
• Produce estimates for building costs
• Develop a sustainable business plan and governance strategy
• Create a document and film which places our neighbourhood history in context and builds excitement for its future.
• Collate all study findings to create a comprehensive report for future funding raising

Lamlash Garden is a real asset to the neighbourhood and works for the common good of all. London is full of undiscovered and unsung pockets of potential like Lamlash Street and the Castle Place Project sites – and when they come to fruition, it's a major part of what makes the city so special. With hindsight it may seem obvious, but it is almost impossible to create a community without a community space.