National Spaces

Inspiring Examples

A few examples of innovative temporary projects on stalled or under utilised open spaces in cities across the UK.

Pop-Up Shopping Mall, 'Boxpark' in Croydon

After the success of a similar project in Shoreditch, a site earmarked for future development was designated to be transformed into a temporary market for the local community and users of the nearby transit station. Boxpark Croydon, proposed for a 2016 opening, will have shops, restaurants and bars in 80 recycled shipping containers, and an event space for 2,000 people.

Growing Greens in a Bag in London

The stalled site of the proposed new Crossrail station at Custom House was converted into a temporary successful community growing space. The neighbourhood participation officer for Newham Council, residents in the surrounding blocks of flats and children from the local primary school worked together to give the site a makeover and establish the small garden using discarded builders bags.

Clean City Project in Manchester

Manchester City Council established a 'Clean City Fund' to pay for environmental work on the city's various vacant sites. Council officers work with local residents to develop projects that improve neighbourhoods and create green spaces and town centres which people can enjoy, take pride in and feel genuinely part of.

Union Street Urban Orchard in London

The Union Street Urban Orchard was a pioneering project in meanwhile space, transforming a derelict site into a thriving community orchard, built with over one hundred volunteers. Constructed from reclaimed materials, 85 fruit trees, and countless wayward plants, the orchard was host to a series of events throughout the summer it was open.

Stalled Spaces Scotland

Following the success of Glasgow City Council's Stalled Spaces project, Architecture and Design Scotland (A+DS) are delivering a national roll-out of the programme working with other Local Authorities across Scotland. A&DS is working with seven councils to deliver their own Stalled Spaces Scotland funding initiative.

The grants will fund community groups to create temporary activity on under used open spaces in their town centres. Skills training and workshops will help local communities realise their plans. The councils are Angus, Argyll and Bute, East Dunbartonshire, East Renfrewshire, Fife, North Ayrshire and Renfrewshire.