Community ownership amongst solutions

Participation, co-operation and community ownership are the solutions to creating sustainable urban environments, says Dr Caroline Lucas, Green Party leader and MEP for the South East.

In a session entitled ‘Rethinking sustainability’ at the Stephen Lawrence 8th Annual Memorial Lecture, Dr Lucas will attacked the ‘bricks and mortar’ approach of mainstream models of regeneration which prioritise quick profits over the need to empower community residents.

She says: “Plentiful green space, access to good public services and improved safety all lie at the heart of successful and sustainable communities. But in order to create neighbourhoods that really ‘work’ – economically, socially,
culturally and environmentally – we also need to give people a stake in their communities.

“Reducing crime, improving prosperity, and ensuring access to services like a GP, good schools or just somewhere to kick a ball around are hugely important. Most of all though, a sense of community is crucial. Residents must be given genuine opportunities to participate in decision-making
regarding their homes and areas.

“Problems can then be tackled collectively, with respect for the equality of all residents. A stronger focus on socially inclusive housing and development would inevitably make it easier for people to get to know one another.”

Dr Lucas continues: “Every UK city has a story to tell of estates built in the 1960s and 70s where shared walkways and open spaces have not brought people together, but have become places to dump rubbish, deal drugs or simply avoid out of fear of crime. UK property developers have a lot to answer for.

“Even now, the 21st century buzzword ‘regeneration’ often means turning run down areas into high profile retail or office developments for high profit, with promises about job creation for local people often ringing hollow.

‘To create safer and happier communities that are socially and
environmentally sustainable, we need groundbreaking environmental design, as well as a commitment to ensuring the provision of local employment and of well-insulated, affordable homes.”

More information: www.carolinelucasmep.org.uk