IPM Case Study: Sparks
The research team at the IPM have been involved in researching Place-based Circular Society Innovations, to examine where social justice and well-being are integral to the way the project runs.
This research ties in heavily with what some place-based practitioners are currently doing. This case study touches upon the importance of examining the benefits of understanding the place-based circular economy. It draws our attention to Sparks in Bristol, to showcase the positive impact places can have when they engage with local, social issues. Sparks is a project which occupies the former Marks & Spencer’s store and has repurposed it as an innovation space focuses on sustainability, creativity, and education. In doing so, it has a positive impact, serving as an important hub for the community, blending retail with interactive exhibits, workshops, and events.
This case study, written by Kathryn Chiswell Jones, CEO of Artspace Lifespace, focuses on the achievements and challenges of the project. In doing so it demonstrates the way, vacant property can be used to make a more appealing, attractive, and sustainable location with a long-term viability which invests in and includes residents ensuring that they want to live, work, visit and invest in a town which and supports and connects local communities.
Read about the work undertaken in Sparks, Bristol, by clicking on the link below:
About the author
Formed in 2006, the Institute of Place Management is the international professional body that supports people committed to developing, managing and making places better.