New Approaches to Integrated Place Shaping

Evaluation Report

Partners

University of Kent

Author

Dr Lucrezia Gigante

Alanna Reid

Trevor MacFarlane

Description

This evaluation report, produced for the University of Kent’s School of Architecture, Design and Planning, assesses the outcomes of the School’s collaboration on the High Street Heritage Action Zone at Chatham Intra, Medway. Drawing on interviews, focus groups and policy analysis, the report examines how participatory planning, live project learning and community engagement can enhance both architectural education and civic capacity. It highlights the project’s success in building relationships between students, residents and local authorities, while identifying opportunities for sustained partnership, co-design and the development of an “Urban Room” model for continued engagement. The report concludes with practical recommendations for higher education institutions and local authorities seeking to embed community collaboration in place-making and planning processes.

July 2024