New things happen
A publication describing the character and identity of places in the Thames Gateway and the ideas that should be at the heart of policies for places.
New things happen: a guide to the future Thames Gateway was commissioned by the government on behalf of the Thames Gateway Strategic Partnership.
It describes the identity and character of places throughout the region, and sets out the ideas that should be at the heart of policies for places.
Managing a shared identity isn’t easy:
- You need to change a place’s reality if you are truly going to change its meaning. Any project to shape the identity of a place must be built around an investment programme: the marketing and communication programme comes second.
- You need to build a coalition among the most influential people and organisations, and be open to different views. Predetermined visions don't work. Creating a shared identity in the Thames Gateway will mean a shared commitment to making new things happen.
- Communicating the identity of a place via word of mouth is much more powerful than an advertising campaign.
New things happen has facilitated CABE’s support for delivery in the Thames Gateway.
The challenges
The Thames Gateway needs a clear and coherent vision for change - defining the identity and character of the area is the key to success.
Growth in the Gateway
The scale of growth in the Thames Gateway, and how to grow and expand existing communities in tune with their identity and culture.
History of an idea
The concept of creating a growth area, or corridor, in the Thames Gateway is not a new one.
Community and identity
New development in Thames Gateway must work with past and present identity so local people can feel part of the changes.
A new environmental aesthetic
Will development in the Thames Gateway create its own particular style, based on sustainable construction and its industrial legacy?
Billy Childish and the Medway Scene
The influence of the Medway landscape and environment on musician, poet and artist, Billy Childish.
Thames Gateway Parklands
A landscape framework which uses green space as the defining idea for the Gateway.
Approach and methodology
The research, analysis and consultation behind our guide to the future of the Thames Gateway, New things happen.
Useful links
