How does a DIY Street project work?
Every street is different but for a project to really work it requires enthusiastic residents who want to improve their street and are willing to put in time and effort to make it happen. The particular characteristics of the street will be a key factor in what is feasible but in almost every street there is at least some potential for change.
Getting the local authority on board is crucial as they will need to adopt and maintain the highway after any changes have been made. Project funding should ideally be secured before design work begins. Capital funding for the pilot DIY Street projects came either from the local authority or an involved housing association and ranged from £20,000 - £100,000 per street (see the completed DIY Street projects for more information). However, it may be possible to implement more modest changes for less.
Community involvement is integral to the project's success. From the outset of a DIY Street project residents are encouraged to get as involved as possible by discussing the issues in their street and possible solutions. DIY Streets is flexible about the when, where and how this involvement is carried out, in order to involve as many residents as possible.
One important aim of this intensive resident involvement is to ensure that all residents feel that they have a say in how their street operates and is managed. This will hopefully gives them a sense of ownership thus encouraging lasting care and respect of the street. This resident involvement aims to empower residents to have the confidence and ability to make positive changes in their community, as well to improve community ties in the local neighbourhood.
There is no set time for creating a DIY Street project but the pilot projects were completed over a 3 year period, whereas the current Links to Schools and Communities projects will take only a year.
The Community Design process typically takes from 8 months to over a year and consists of many different meetings and events.