On the bustling Market Place in the heart of Romford Town Centre looms the mighty Littlewoods site. Unoccupied for over 10 years and hidden from view by commercial hoarding, its almost as if the gargantuan space never existed, left to rot whilst the rest of the town began its journey to regeneration. We want to turn that forgotten space into the largest, pop-up, multi sensory canvas our town has EVER laid eyes on. Working with artists, musicians and performers from all over the globe, as well as YOU, the community, no crevice will be left untouched in our quest to create our very own cultural mecca and we're thinking BIG. Over a 4 week period, we will breathe new life into the space, bringing Romford its very own indoor festival complete with live music, large scale art works, performances and workshops, not to mention the gastronomic delights of a micro food market. Romford deserves its own hidden oasis of curiosity, creativity and culture, help us make that happen.

What we'll deliver:

• Curate an interactive, experiential events programme for our community and beyond to enjoy
• Encourage others to explore disused spaces in a creative way to improve our town
• Make use of a building that has sat empty for 10 years.
• Showcase Romford on a national level
• Bring international artists and performers to Romford
• Provide a space for both international and local artists to exhibit

Why it's a great idea:

The Littlewoods site was once a thriving department store, of which its sheer size is testament. It is disheartening to see it uninhabited and not being used as it should. At Made Public, we believe strongly in cultural regeneration and using creative means to improve areas and towns. Out of Sight Festival will show that creativity combined with a healthy dose of business and community engagement is key to bringing our town back to life. It will give the local residents (ourselves included) a festival experience that can be enjoyed in our own hometown. It will be bigger and bolder than anything seen previously in Romford, giving us the chance to challenge the perceptions so often heaped on our tiny part of Greater London. And whilst it will undoubtedly boost visitor numbers, increase the footfall and put Romford on the map, we also hope Out of Sight Festival will act as catalyst, encouraging others to use our town's empty units in a more, creative, interesting way.

Steps to get it done:

• One month on going exhibition
• Opening launch event to public.
• Secure the Littlewoods space and set dates.
• Enter the space
• Festival once a weekend for a month
• Get space visitor ready
• Secure artists and performers
• Start marketing campaign