In order to ensure the success of the scheme, resident ‘buy-in’ was essential. However, during the process of becoming a Housing Renewal Area the residents had been widely consulted and there was a fear of ‘consultation fatigue’ setting in for this particular exercise.

At the same time, cultural factors in the predominantly Urdu and Bengali speaking population meant that women’s views were often difficult to elicit in mixed groups.

Double parking, combined with cars travelling at considerable speed, not only made Rochdale’s South Street and Ramsay Street an unpleasant environment in which to live, but also a danger to pedestrians.

Based on the number of accidents and other problems associated with high car ownership in the area, the local authority identified the streets as eligible for a pedestrian-friendly makeover under the Government’s Home Zone Challenge Programme.

The redesign of the streetscape would slow cars down to a maximum of 10mph and provide a shared pedestrian/vehicle space through the use of landscaping, public art, road surface changes and lighting improvements.

The consultation process was in two phases; the first ensured the residents understood and wanted the Home Zone concept and the second involved them in the design. To overcome consultation fatigue, creative and targeted events were held to involve all sections of the community.

These included:

Women’s groups were targeted. The consultation process accessed youth groups through a prize draw. During the second phase, independent community volunteers ensured residents’ views were accurately relayed, and a residents’ steering group was involved at all stages.

50% of residents attended at least one event and, of all those petitioned, 95 per cent wanted Home Zone scheme to move forward. The result has been a high degree of community ownership, a higher level of confidence and communication with the community. Community consultation is more effective with practical experience of the new project.

Residents need to be engaged in the process - consultation is a process of involvement. The scheme reflected the cultural values of its community, personalising it to the people who live there and so ensuring a protective pride in the improvements.

The residents and environment

Partners:

Funding:

Budget :

Renew Northwest
info@RENEW.co.uk

//2003

case

Urban Policy > Social inclusion & integration > Community development

Citizens' participation