Contrary to best practice, there has been no Public Realm investment in Kenton to sustain local shopping or commerce since 1995. Shopping areas look tired and do not meet the aspirations of the independently minded residents who now live here. Long term planning and improvements by traders has fallen off and increases in anti social behavior and potentially criminality, because fewer people use the street, is a concern of many. In addition, one shopping area, either side of Kenton Road, is under split control between Harrow and Brent Council and figuratively in no man’s land. Enterprise Kenton’s initiative has wide support and has a creative and professional team behind it.

What we'll deliver:

• 75 planters purchased to improve the Public Realm, Shop Local campaigns and a dedicated web site to promote Kenton.

Why it's a great idea:

People are the most important visual illustration of the well being of a Neighbourhood. Their presence reflects its vitality, the potential for existing and new business and the desire for others to visit or live there. There are individuals in Kenton West who have significantly improved the lifestyle and future opportunities of residents. The Community Hall and Nursery School are such illustrations. There are other examples but both the transitory nature of resident's and the poor quality of streetscape makes marketing and promotion to a wider audience difficult. This project is designed to create a sense of ownership and pride in the community. Promote Kenton to the whole community for local shopping, lifestyle and leisure and encourage long term investment by traders.

Steps to get it done:

• Set clearly understood and achievable objects, with well defined responsibilities and a quality circle for control

Plant containers chosen to create interest in themselves, plantings undertaken by volunteers and maintained by retailers.
Off the wall sales opportunities such as July 4th, one day cricket matches sponsored and PTA functions etc. sponsored to reinforce the message “Shop Local”.
Investments to include upgrading shop front facades using new signage and brightly coloured awnings, to identify them as vibrant units.
Improved shop image to include the removal of satellite dishes over shop fronts and a TV distribution system installed.
Wayfinding signage, eg Totem Poles, to be installed at prime junctions and at other specific locations to strengthen the identity of local shops.
Quarterly, a newsletter called The Kenton Flyer to be available through local retailers to promote the neighbourhood and its commercial enterprise. The website Kentonwest.com will also be used as a vehicle to promote local groups and inform Kenton, its site regularly advertised to reach transient groups.