Woolwich Common Estate Improvement Project has been shortlisted for the Community Involvement Local Government Chronicle (LGC) Award
Greenwich has been recognised for its outstanding community engagement work, with the Woolwich Common Estate Improvement Project being shortlisted for the Community Involvement Local Government Chronicle (LGC) Award. This accolade highlights councils that have successfully collaborated with local communities to co-design services that address their needs, and Greenwich’s nomination is a testament to the transformative power of resident-led initiatives.
The Woolwich Common Estate Improvement Project was delivered in partnership with the Greenwich Cooperative Development Agency (GCDA) and DG Cities, with the goal of empowering residents to take ownership of the safety, security, and overall environment of their estate. The project encouraged a collective approach to improving public spaces while promoting sustainable practices and fostering a stronger community spirit. Over the course of twelve months, residents participated in numerous activities aimed at enhancing the estate and improving their quality of life.
Councillor Averil Lekau, Cabinet Member for Climate Action, Sustainability, and Transport, praised the project’s impact, noting that the transformation of the green spaces and recreational areas has been remarkable. She highlighted that this initiative not only revitalised the look of the estate but also encouraged environmentally friendly practices that helped reduce littering and fly-tipping. Furthermore, she pointed out that the project contributed significantly to the physical and mental well-being of residents by creating spaces that promoted social interaction and community bonding.
“The project enhanced the estate’s appearance, promoted sustainability by reducing littering and fly-tipping, and boosted residents’ well-being and community spirit.”
Averil Lekau, Cabinet Member
Councillor Rachel Taggart-Ryan, Cabinet Member for Community Safety and Enforcement, expressed pride in the project’s success and its recognition by the LGC Awards. She emphasised that the initiative is a shining example of how councils and communities can work together to create meaningful and lasting change. She noted that, as a result of this engagement, residents reported feeling safer in their surroundings, with cleaner spaces and increased patrols fostering a greater sense of security. The educational workshops played a crucial role in addressing anti-social behaviour, leading to noticeable reductions in littering and fly-tipping.
Throughout the year, the project facilitated several estate-wide clean-up days, with residents working alongside the council’s caretaking team to collect a total of 10.5 tonnes of rubbish. Gardening activities encouraged community participation, with residents coming together to create and maintain green spaces that enhanced the estate’s overall appearance. A series of educational workshops also provided valuable insights into sustainable waste management, recycling, and how to tackle issues such as dog fouling. To support these efforts, additional dog waste bins were installed, and designated dog-friendly areas were introduced to encourage responsible pet ownership.
The project extended beyond environmental improvements to address social concerns and economic empowerment. TARU Arts collaborated with residents to create artwork made from recycled materials, with workshops aimed at educating and inspiring young people while strengthening family bonds. Responding to concerns about anti-social behaviour, the council increased Community Safety Enforcement Officer patrols, significantly improving residents’ feelings of safety on the estate. Additionally, the initiative served as a platform for upskilling residents, providing them with opportunities to explore employment with GCDA. As a direct result of the project, three new jobs were created, including a full-time receptionist, a community gardener, and a position supporting the council’s holiday meals programme at the Woolwich Common Community Centre.
The LGC Awards, which celebrate innovation and excellence in local government, will announce the winners at a prestigious ceremony on 11 June 2025 at Grosvenor House, London. Shortlisting for this award reinforces the Royal Borough of Greenwich’s commitment to community engagement and sustainable urban development. The Woolwich Common Estate Improvement Project has not only transformed a local neighbourhood but also set a benchmark for collaborative initiatives across the borough, demonstrating the power of community-driven change.
