Meanwhile Use for London
Greater London Authority, Arup
Greater London Authority (GLA)
Urban Farm DB summary
A GLA report institutionalising 'meanwhile use' of vacant land/units awaiting development, presenting support via competitions, guidance, land provision and time-limited change-of-use permissions for interim community uses including gardens.
Key points
- 1The GLA report institutionalizes the concept of 'meanwhile use' for vacant urban land and properties.
- 2It focuses on temporarily utilizing sites that are awaiting long-term development.
- 3The framework supports interim community-led initiatives, specifically mentioning urban gardens.
- 4The GLA proposes support through competitions, guidance, land provision, and time-limited change-of-use permissions.
- 5The policy aims to maximize the social and economic value of underutilized urban spaces.
Abstract and stored text
AI-generated summaryThis 2022 report by the Greater London Authority (GLA) and Arup addresses the concept of 'meanwhile use' for vacant land and properties across London. It outlines a strategic framework to institutionalize the temporary utilization of sites awaiting long-term development. The report emphasizes supporting interim community-led initiatives, including urban gardens and other green spaces. Key mechanisms proposed by the GLA include facilitating competitions, providing comprehensive guidance, offering access to suitable land, and granting time-limited change-of-use permissions. This policy aims to maximize the social and economic value of underutilized urban spaces while fostering community engagement and local resilience.
This is an AI synthesis from the stored record, not the original abstract. Check the original before quoting.
Why it matters for urban farming
This report is highly relevant for citizen-driven urban farming as it provides a clear policy framework and practical support for establishing temporary community gardens on vacant urban land. By institutionalizing 'meanwhile use' and offering guidance, land access, and simplified permissions, the Greater London Authority creates significant opportunities for urban farmers to access otherwise inaccessible plots. This initiative helps overcome common barriers like land scarcity and complex regulations, enabling communities to transform underutilized spaces into productive food-growing areas, fostering local food systems, and enhancing community resilience.