Meanwhile use in Wales: Summary and guidance from CREW
A report summarising the context, background, potential benefits and challenges of meanwhile use in Wales
Executive summary
Based on research through the regional officers in CREW and consultation on current and future planned activity with various local authorities, community organisations and housing associations, Meanwhile use in Wales: Summary and guidance aims to address some of the gaps in the current information for meanwhile use activity in Wales and to provide a signposting guide for those interested in utilising meanwhile use for social and economic benefits in their locality.The paper provides the context and background to the concept of Meanwhile Use in Wales and offers a summary of the potential benefits and challenges to localities, occupiers and landlords in developing spaces for temporary use.
The case studies included in this paper have drawn on unique projects in Wales and beyond to demonstrate the diversity and impact that this type of delivery can provide as well as drawing on lessons from on the ground practice.
Technical summary
The paper offers useful information on:
- Advantages of meanwhile use
- Benefits to property owners or leaseholders
- Benefits to community groups and occupiers
- Barriers and challenges to meanwhile use
- UK policy
- Results of CREW's survey on meanwhile use in Wales
- Conclusion & recommendations
- Further reading & resources
The findings of the CREW survey on Meanwhile Use in Wales are also included, carried out at the Wales Regeneration Summit Fringe event in Swansea in October 2014. The results of the survey, along with a detailed scoping exercise of Meanwhile Use in the UK, have helped to guide the content of this document and have fed into the recommendations for future action.
The report is available online. The document is for the purpose of guidance only, CREW cannot offer technical, legal or planning advice in regard to Meanwhile Use activities. Each area and project, occupier and landlord will have a different set of circumstances and factors to consider. As such, it is highly recommended that you seek advice specific to your project.
Written by Lorena Axinte, reproducing CREW's original text.
