‘How can Bristol ensure all communities become an inclusive part of its present and future?’

Placemaking means so much more than just bricks and mortar. It is people who really make a place. So how can we create spaces that go beyond the walls and really tap into the communities living within them to benefit them and future generations?

Social value is not a new topic, but one that should continue to be top of the agenda within local communities and indeed, authorities. After all, it is an authentic and proactive approach to social value that will result in genuine and tangible benefits to a local community.

As a one of the most culturally and ethnically diverse areas in the South West, the key question is how can Bristol ensure all communities become an inclusive part of its present and future?

As developers, we must embed ourselves within these communities right from the start of any project to ensure we are focussing on improving a range of bespoke social outcomes, in addition to support with employment and skills.

The Soapworks, where we are bringing the former Gardiner Haskins site back to life, is a great example of how a development can bridge the gap between a city centre with its surrounding communities, which often differ greatly in terms of culture, local economy, employment and health.

We have worked in collaboration with The Social Value Portal to produce a plan that will improve local opportunities, life chances and wellbeing throughout the lifecycle of The Soapworks; from design and procurement through to construction and maintaining and operating the scheme once people are living there.

The mixed-use Soapworks development that will celebrate Bristol’s industrial past and creative culture. Image: First Base

Ensuring that social, economic and environmental value is maximised for years to come is key to boosting local economies.

Often the first phase of a scheme will help boost local access to employment and skills through partnerships with local authorities, charities, probation services, education institutions and employment and training organisations.

In addition to support with employment and skills, the focus must also be on improving a range of bespoke social outcomes, in partnership with the local community.

This includes improvements to local health and wellbeing, reducing loneliness and isolation, supporting vulnerable young children and their families, responding to the climate emergency, improving air quality, promoting better use of green space and supporting local SMEs and the voluntary sector.

So. essentially, it is about being a good neighbour and playing an active role in the community to support their future and the future of their neighbourhood, town or city.

There is no ‘one-size-fits-all’ approach when it comes to social value. We must really get under the skin of the communities we are developing within to truly understand the challenges they are facing and help them to maximise social value through their local schemes.

For social impact to work and deliver long-term benefits for local people and communities, it must always be a part of every decision process.

Liam works for First Base, the mixed-use property developer turning the Gardiner Haskins warehouse into new workspaces, homes, and social spaces. Photo: First Base

The significance of retail and hospitality on the social value created by a scheme should also not be overlooked. Both industries play a key role in community inclusion and social cohesion.

Whether it be through shopping as a family, grabbing a coffee with friends or attending business meetings on common ground, the estate management of a scheme plays a key role in bringing a community together.

For communities to be cohesive, there must be opportunities for people to regularly engage, meet, work and play, no matter their background, income or culture.

Ultimately it is sharing knowledge, listening and understanding that will collectively enhance social value. For us, this means learning from other schemes, embedding ourselves within the communities we are serving and shaping our developments to be even better places for people to live, work and play.

Liam Ronan-Chlond is the community and social value lead at First Base.

Main photo: First Base

Read more: Soapworks developer to cut its carbon emissions by more than a third