Initial funding has been obtained to build a large scale model of the Hoxton area of Inner London. This will be built in a community gallery space in Hoxton Street. I am seeking funds to pay for the rental of the space and the additional support of the spaces’ owner, Peer. The model will show buildings, streets, green spaces and landmarks and will be built in the gallery’s large shop window where its progress can be seen by passers by from the street. Additional events will be held where local residents including both adults and children can add their views to how the future neighbourhood could look adding their ideas to the model. Ideas will be shared to influence future decisions about the area such as whether to build more housing, facilitate self-build projects, create new green spaces or playgrounds. Local politicians, including the Mayor of Hackney, will be invited to see what has been produced. Once complete the model can be shown in other locations to encourage debate.

What we'll deliver:

• Direct the local council to make decisions which local people have proposed
• Provide a community focus for exchanging ideas.
• Involve children in the future of where they live

Why it's a great idea:

Existing funding will pay for a model maker and facilitator but not for a warm, dry and visible space for the model and public events. It is very important that the process of building the model and asking local people to participate is visible to passers by who might drop-in. It is also important to have a space where events can be held around the model. Peer, an organisation which commissions, produces and presents the highest quality art for its diverse local community, as well as for wider audiences across London, the UK and beyond will support the project and provide a high quality public location. The funding sought will pay for Peer to be involved and provide the location. Once complete the outcome will also feed into the formal planning process.

Steps to get it done:

• Starting to build the model
• Holding the first community event
• Presenting the project to the Mayor of Hackney

This project is related to research work being undertaken at the Bartlett School of Architecture, UCL who have provided the initial funding.