Process
In July 2009, we ran a Spaceshaper exercise to measure how two groups of LGBT and non LGBT people rated, used and experienced Burgess Park in South London. All the participants were volunteers.
Visiting the site
A site visit is an integral part of Spaceshaper. It prepares participants to fill out the questionnaire and record their individual perceptions of the space.
The site visit involved walking as a group to Chumleigh Gardens in Burgess Park and dividing into three mixed groups to explore the park for an hour. Groups were asked to visit the main attractions - Chumleigh Gardens, the Lake and the sports areas - and to make a reasonable circuit of the park in the time allocated.
Inputting the Spaceshaper data
All three groups met at the Sports Pavilion to fill in the Spaceshaper questionnaire. CABE staff inputted the Spaceshaper data into the online application.
Discussing the site visit
The Spaceshaper results were presented as part of a group discussion facilitated by Sue Morgan, director of Around the Block Ltd. Sue has experience of working with LGBT groups, extensive knowledge of Spaceshaper and an understanding of parks and green space in South London.
The aggregated Spaceshaper results from all participants were presented first, followed by the same results segmented between the LGBT and non LGBT groups.
Following up on the results
The findings of the event were fed into wider consultation work being done by Southwark Council as part of the Burgess Park redevelopment plan.
