17 July
Join the Everyday Growing Cultures team at The Showroom, Sheffield on 23 July to discuss and explore with key partners and stakeholders, what happens when two communities in two cities come together to solve the problem of growing vegetables on vacant land. As part of the event, the award winning feature documentary, Grown in Detroit, will be screened from 18.15. The event is free to attend, but registration is required:
http://everydaygrowingculturespublicevent.eventbrite.co.uk/
Everyday Growing Cultures is a six-month pilot study that focuses on the potentially transformative value of connecting two currently disparate communities: allotment growers and the open data community. Based on comparative research in Manchester and Sheffield, the project explores the potential effects of digital engagement and open data for allotment holders and those on waiting lists to build stronger, more active communities, benefit local economies and improve environmental sustainability and food security.
Since mid-February 2013, in partnership with Open Data Manchester, The Kindling Trust and Grow Sheffield, we have run a number of events in Manchester and Sheffield, with growing communities to identify potential food growing spaces. We have talked to local councils about taking some of our ideas forward and how this might take place. We have requested allotment data through the Freedom of Information Act and looked at how council websites provide information to potential allotment plot holders. We are in the process of surveying people on waiting lists and have made a film highlighting these important issues. This film will also be shown at the event and the filmmakers will be there to answer your questions!