tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-71006504393605819242024-02-20T02:03:57.552+00:00Keep Greenock's Sugar Sheds A Community SpaceArchive of campaign blog from 2011 which was run by Magic Torch @aulddunrod. This campaign is no longer active, but we do still occasionally share news relating to the Sugar Sheds. The campaign is not affiliated with any political party, or the Sugarsheds music website / twitter account, which exists to promote the Inverclyde music scene.KeepSugarShedshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03892799357477238649noreply@blogger.comBlogger34125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7100650439360581924.post-88528186971852259602014-04-06T09:30:00.000+01:002014-04-06T09:30:00.898+01:00All Very Sweet...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<i><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt;">White Gold</span></i><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt;"> is an ambitious,
site-specific performance set in <st1:place w:st="on">Greenock</st1:place>’s
iconic Sugar Sheds. Brought to the warehouse for storing, sifting, refining and
presenting, <i>White Gold</i> is woven
together from vivid and touching stories gathered across Inverclyde. <br />
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As audiences walk through the show, artists, performers and 200 volunteers will
bring narratives to life through drama, movement, original music and
breathtaking aerial performance. Surprising, poignant and deeply moving, <i>White Gold</i> gives the community of <st1:place w:st="on">Greenock</st1:place> top billing as the nation’s stars. <br />
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An original creation conceived and overseen by Mark Murphy, directed by Simone
Jenkinson and Joseph Traynore of Cuerda Producciones. It is produced by Iron
Oxide <span style="background: white;">and includes Cuerda Producciones<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>from <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:country-region w:st="on">Argentina</st1:country-region></st1:place>,<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>All or Nothing Aerial<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>and DJs/musicians<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>Tigerstyle</span>. Part of the Glasgow
2014 Cultural Programme.<br />
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<a href="http://www.glasgow2014.com/culture"><span style="color: black;">www.glasgow2014.com/culture</span></a><span style="background: white;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<b><u>Volunteer cast and crew</u></b> <br />
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Volunteers are currently being sought to join the <i>White Gold</i> cast and crew, working with a talented team of artists
and theatre professionals. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<strong style="background-color: white; line-height: 17.05pt;"><span style="background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-weight: normal;">Cast Members</span></strong><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 17.05pt;">, <strong><span style="font-weight: normal;">Assistant Stage Managers</span></strong>,<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><strong><span style="font-weight: normal;">Runners</span></strong>,<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><strong><span style="font-weight: normal;">Lighting Design Crew</span></strong>,<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><strong><span style="font-weight: normal;">Site Crew</span></strong><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>and<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><strong><span style="font-weight: normal;">Stage Crew are all
required</span></strong>. The positions are accessible to anyone 16+, with a
willingness to learn and there are a number of roles available, depending on
how much time each volunteer has to give. <br />
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<b>To find out more please come along to
our Open Evening at the Beacon Arts Centre, <st1:place w:st="on">Greenock</st1:place>,
on Mon 14 April from <st1:time hour="19" minute="30" w:st="on">7.30pm-8.30pm</st1:time>.
You’ll have the chance to talk to the team, see the aerial performers in action
and find out how you can get involved with White Gold. </b><br />
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For further information or to request a pack on the opportunities above please
email </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 17.05pt;"><a href="mailto:laura@beaconartscentre.co.uk?subject=White%20Gold%3A%20Volunteer%20Roles" target="_self"><span style="background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; color: black;">Laura@beaconartscentre.co.uk</span></a><span style="background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;"> <br /></span></span></div>
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MORE SUGAR AND COMMONWEALTH TALES....</h2>
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As well as the White Gold project, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AbsentVoices" target="_blank">Absent Voices</a> continues to tell the story of the Sheds and our community in beautiful, interesting ways. <a href="http://identityinverclyde.blogspot.co.uk/2014/04/absent-voices-vs-dutch-gable-house.html" target="_blank">One of the project artists, Alastair Cook will shortly be teaming up with The Dutch Gable House for a short residency in the historic buildin</a>g.</div>
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And Magic Torch's own Commonwealth project <a href="http://talesoftheoak.blogspot.co.uk/2014/03/uncommon-tales.html" target="_blank">13 Commonwealth Tale</a>s, has begun, preparing two books for publication later in the year, retelling commonwealth folklore. The books will launch late Summer.</div>
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Paul Bristowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06093165243350186267noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7100650439360581924.post-57075303071789393762014-01-29T12:00:00.000+00:002014-01-29T12:00:03.112+00:00Mr Cube Strikes - A Sugar Sheds Snack<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Inspired by the work of the <a href="http://www.google.co.uk/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=3&ved=0CDwQFjAC&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.absentvoices.com%2F&ei=k9foUvGoJc7B7AaR8IHQAQ&usg=AFQjCNGZkNiLdA3EouIos2iPSDy8hA7XCA&sig2=pGZbI1bYUZphUNap_vfLnw&bvm=bv.60157871,d.bGQ" target="_blank">Absent Voices</a> project, looking at the history of the Sugar Sheds and the associated industry to create new artwork, Magic Torch have produced a very short comic strip featuring former Tate n Lyle stalwart, Mr Cube. You can see him below exploring his own feelings on the sheds before hooking up with what we are very confident is Inverclyde's First Superhero Team (full spinoff story coming soon!). Above, he is in more terrifying form on the cover of a Tales of the Oak comic. All courtesy of Andy Lee. If you are of a mind to support your local folklorists, you can help support our future projects by purchasing a special <a href="http://www.comixology.com/Tales-of-the-Oak/digital-comic/50896?utm_source=twitter&utm_medium=socialmedia&utm_campaign=TalesoftheOak&utm_content=Submit+Email&utm_term=&app=1" target="_blank">digital version of Tales of the Oak from Comixology</a>.<br />
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While the Sugar Sheds campaign is no longer a focus for Magic Torch, it looks like it may be a busy year ahead for the Sheds, with new parking, the continuing <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Absent-Voices/611539992240304" target="_blank">Absent Voices</a> project and also <a href="http://keepsugarsheds.blogspot.co.uk/2014/01/white-gold-needs-you.html" target="_blank">White Gold</a>, a performance which will be staged at the sheds during the Commonwealth Games. Sweet.<br />
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It's almost as if, maybe using the space for arts, heritage and community events longer term wasn't a bad idea after all... ;-)<br />
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<br />Paul Bristowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06093165243350186267noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7100650439360581924.post-54266068760441836502014-01-23T10:00:00.000+00:002014-01-23T10:00:01.471+00:00White Gold Needs You<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;"><i><span style="color: #606060;">White Gold</span></i><span style="color: #606060;">, an incredible large-scale performance, will transform the Sugar Sheds in </span><span style="color: #606060;">Greenock</span><span style="color: #606060;"> this June as part of Culture 2014, the celebrations surrounding the Commonwealth Games.<br /><em><span style="font-style: normal;"><br />The project</span></em> is led by arts organisation </span><span style="color: #6dc6dd;"><a href="http://iron-oxide.org/">Iron Oxide</a></span><span style="color: #606060;"> </span><span style="color: #606060;">in partnership with the </span><span style="color: #6dc6dd;"><a href="http://www.beaconartscentre.co.uk/">Beacon Arts Centre</a></span><span style="color: #606060;">. It's an original creation by Mark Murphy and includes </span><span style="color: #6dc6dd; word-wrap: break-word;"><a href="http://www.cuerdaproducciones.com/">Cuerda Producciones</a></span><span style="color: #606060;"><a href="http://www.cuerdaproducciones.com/"> </a></span><span style="color: #606060;">from </span><span style="color: #606060;">Argentina</span><span style="color: #606060;">, </span><span style="color: #6dc6dd;"><a href="http://www.aerialdance.co.uk/">All or Nothing Aerial</a></span><span style="color: #606060;"> </span><span style="color: #606060;">and DJs/musicians </span><span style="color: #6dc6dd;"><a href="http://tigerstyleonline.co.uk/">Tigerstyle</a></span><span style="color: #606060;">. </span><span style="color: #606060;"><br />Bringing personal stories to life through music, drama and breath-taking aerial performance, <i>White Gold</i> gives the community of </span><span style="color: #606060;">Greenock</span><span style="color: #606060;"> top billing as the nation’s stars. The performance can only be realised with the public’s support and input and we are delighted to announce the following opportunities:</span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;"><span style="color: #606060;"><b><u>Volunteer cast and crew</u></b><br /><br />Volunteers are currently being sought to join the <i>White Gold</i> cast and crew, working with a talented team of artists and theatre professionals.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;"><strong><span style="color: #606060; font-weight: normal;">Cast Members</span></strong><span style="color: #606060;">, </span><strong style="color: #606060;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">Assistant Stage Managers</span></strong><span style="color: #606060;">,</span><span style="color: #606060;"> </span><strong style="color: #606060;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">Runners</span></strong><span style="color: #606060;">,</span><span style="color: #606060;"> </span><strong style="color: #606060;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">Lighting Design Crew</span></strong><span style="color: #606060;">,</span><span style="color: #606060;"> </span><strong style="color: #606060;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">Site Crew</span></strong><span style="color: #606060;"> and </span><strong style="color: #606060;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">Stage Crew are all required</span></strong><span style="color: #606060;">. The positions are accessible to anyone 16+, with a willingness to learn and there are a number of roles available, depending on how much time each volunteer has to give. </span>To find out more or request an information pack on any of the above roles please contact <a href="mailto:laura@beaconartscentre.co.uk?subject=White%20Gold%3A%20Volunteer%20Roles" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank"><span style="color: #6dc6dd;">Laura@beaconartscentre.co.uk</span></a><span style="color: #606060;"> <wbr></wbr>by Fri 15 February. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;"><span style="color: #606060;"><br /><b><u>Free aerial performance workshops</u></b><u> </u><br /><br />Hang, climb, swing and suspend your way through a free taster session in aerial skills with </span><span style="color: #606060;">Edinburgh</span><span style="color: #606060;">'s <strong><span style="font-weight: normal;">All or Nothing</span></strong><b> </b>at the<b> </b><strong><span style="font-weight: normal;">Beacon Arts Centre</span></strong><b>.</b> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;"><span style="color: #606060;">Each session will start with a warm up before moving onto the aerial equipment with a chance to try out rope and material trapeze. You will learn how to get on & off the aerial kit leading onto basic moves, climbs, wraps and tricks and a wee bit of hanging upside down.<br /><br />Suitable for all abilities - you just need to be willing to give it a go - this is a great introduction to the air and aerial skills. We'll explain what the <strong><span style="font-weight: normal;">White Gold</span></strong> project is all about and how you can get involved in the final performance at the Sugar Sheds in June. </span><br /><br />Participants can choose from one session on: <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_1069203595" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-bottom-style: dashed; border-bottom-width: 1px; position: relative; top: -2px; z-index: 0;" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ" style="position: relative; top: 2px; z-index: -1;">Mon 3 February</span></span>: <span style="color: #606060;"><span class="aBn" data-term="goog_1069203596" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-bottom-style: dashed; border-bottom-width: 1px; position: relative; top: -2px; z-index: 0;" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ" style="position: relative; top: 2px; z-index: -1;">7.15pm- 8.45pm</span></span></span><span style="color: #606060;">,</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #606060;"><span class="aBn" data-term="goog_1069203597" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-bottom-style: dashed; border-bottom-width: 1px; position: relative; top: -2px; z-index: 0;" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ" style="position: relative; top: 2px; z-index: -1;">Tue 4 March</span></span>: </span><span style="color: #606060;"><span class="aBn" data-term="goog_1069203598" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-bottom-style: dashed; border-bottom-width: 1px; position: relative; top: -2px; z-index: 0;" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ" style="position: relative; top: 2px; z-index: -1;">5.30pm-7pm</span></span></span><span style="color: #606060;"> and Sat 5 April: </span><span style="color: #606060;"><span class="aBn" data-term="goog_1069203600" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-bottom-style: dashed; border-bottom-width: 1px; position: relative; top: -2px; z-index: 0;" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ" style="position: relative; top: 2px; z-index: -1;">11am-12.30pm</span></span></span><span style="color: #606060;">.<br /><br />To book a place please contact </span><a href="mailto:laura@beaconartscentre.co.uk?subject=White%20Gold%3A%20Volunteer%20Roles" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank"><span style="color: #6dc6dd;">Laura@beaconartscentre.co.uk</span></a></span><span style="color: #606060;"><span style="font-size: small;"> or call 01475 723723. Places are limited so book quickly to avoid disappointment.</span></span></span></div>
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</span></span>Paul Bristowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06093165243350186267noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7100650439360581924.post-21433463691710061262013-09-20T08:28:00.001+01:002013-09-20T08:28:14.046+01:00Check Out Absent Voices<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdQcVve_mjyVbkYs-jCvOvFeVjKab1r3hVCtmAEHbvbxNszpcJcvKJ6PnkUNa5GIOF6jfmd_8x5dCRPaxGJrBLONXL8zOeVcxrJOBXeMTVKdCBhnJKttd1n8leC4RcgMbDlP5Q8ER7rxLX/s1600/absent.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdQcVve_mjyVbkYs-jCvOvFeVjKab1r3hVCtmAEHbvbxNszpcJcvKJ6PnkUNa5GIOF6jfmd_8x5dCRPaxGJrBLONXL8zOeVcxrJOBXeMTVKdCBhnJKttd1n8leC4RcgMbDlP5Q8ER7rxLX/s640/absent.jpg" width="452" /></a></div>
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This excellent new Heritage Lottery Fund supported project also has a very lively Facebook Page.<br />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Absent-Voices/611539992240304" target="_blank">Have a looksee...</a>Paul Bristowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06093165243350186267noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7100650439360581924.post-4838158086228965432013-07-18T12:00:00.000+01:002013-07-18T12:00:08.815+01:002014 Commonwealth Games / Keep Corlick WIld<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAjccQAXyq3gQOe23gKkEVbgIPZ7SfURi8eq2juxkjYGUPnUYvWV8lULYH62C1QJR2YNGEh6-XSeIV5xejM6Gsuw76EOn4bRuKL3h25hef1rk1OyRvXdJGiQXB8lXAbt2okpLWPdC3SbHU/s1600/shedfarm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="232" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAjccQAXyq3gQOe23gKkEVbgIPZ7SfURi8eq2juxkjYGUPnUYvWV8lULYH62C1QJR2YNGEh6-XSeIV5xejM6Gsuw76EOn4bRuKL3h25hef1rk1OyRvXdJGiQXB8lXAbt2okpLWPdC3SbHU/s400/shedfarm.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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It has been announced that an amazing aerial performance will be staged at Greenock's Sugar Sheds as part of the 2014 Commonwealth Games Cultural Celebrations, perhaps further proof of its potential as a venue.<br />
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"<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;"><strong style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><em style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 14px; font-style: italic; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">White Gold</em></strong></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;"> will offer audiences a site specific, promenade performance experience. A spokesperson for the project said: “Brought to the sugar sheds for storing, sifting, refining and finally presenting, </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;"><em style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 14px; font-style: italic; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">White Gold </em></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;">is woven together from vivid and touching narratives gathered from across the nation."</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;"><a href="http://www.allmediascotland.com/media-releases/52049/glasgow-2014-cultural-programme-launched-for-inverclyde/" target="_blank">You can read more about this performance and other 2014 Cultural Events here</a>. Sounds really interesting.</span><br />
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While not directly related to the Sugar Sheds, there's some information below on a new local campaign and public event to discuss the proposed windfarm development.<br />
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There are many differing viewpoints on the proposal - will it create local jobs? If so, isn't that a good thing? Well, we've already seen this week <a href="http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-glasgow-west-23314933" target="_blank">how one local development agency has failed to make those sorts of jobs materialis</a>e; with so much red tape, procurement law and fiery hoops it's never as straightforward as is proposed.<br />
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People are often very cynical, assuming that decisions have already been made and deals done - to be absolutely honest, I've yet to make my mind up about the windfarm. However I appreciate that Keep Corlick Wild are at least trying to have a conversation - something which doesn't always happen, "consultation" on such developments is often undertaken on the developers terms, this at least takes an element of the discussion back into the public arena. So regardless of your view, you should go along - at the very worst, if this development goes ahead, a local pressure group could be instrumental in ensuring the promised community benefit materialises - surely something we can all agree on regardless of how we feel about the development.<br />
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<br />Paul Bristowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06093165243350186267noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7100650439360581924.post-49628481420723645912013-06-12T10:00:00.000+01:002013-07-15T15:05:34.731+01:00Sugar Rush<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7Bij71UNeoi0H-lRTVl1WwQ-Smacj-8jc8_3IIAK9rV966dPnTPvJvj5VdNubi21ifNk58FbKeO0xOXFmhmyMtX-1yS5roxAFYnGGcg7EFArqut8yP_uurVOXCNQSSYROtdq1EfwDtD5Z/s1600/sugar-molecules-glycolaldehyde.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7Bij71UNeoi0H-lRTVl1WwQ-Smacj-8jc8_3IIAK9rV966dPnTPvJvj5VdNubi21ifNk58FbKeO0xOXFmhmyMtX-1yS5roxAFYnGGcg7EFArqut8yP_uurVOXCNQSSYROtdq1EfwDtD5Z/s400/sugar-molecules-glycolaldehyde.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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It's been awhile, but here's a wee cluster of relevant updates...<br />
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We're delighted to hear that a new Heritage Lottery Fund project, Absent Voices, will explore the history of the Sugar Sheds. The project has been developed by Alec Galloway, a long time advocate of using the sheds creatively, <a href="http://keepsugarsheds.blogspot.co.uk/2011/07/guest-blogger-alec-galloway.html">and an early contributor to this blog</a>. Can't wait to see how it all comes together.<br />
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There have been several new heritage projects kicking off locally...<br />
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Inverclyde Council has been given funding for a <a href="http://www.inverclyde.gov.uk/news/2013/may/further-boost-coastal-tourism-inverclyde/">new coastal heritage trail</a> and also a new <a href="http://www.inverclydenow.com/today/9554-cash-for-young-peoples-heritage-project">youthwork programme</a>. The Identity project, which staged a play in the <a href="http://keepsugarsheds.blogspot.co.uk/">Sugar Sheds this time last year</a>, is drawing to a close, but is going out with a bang with a <a href="http://www.scribd.com/doc/144639991/Kith-Kin">new book Kith and Kin</a> and website launched in the last few weeks. And Magic Torch's own Tales of the Oak project <a href="http://paulbristow.blogspot.co.uk/2013/05/wee-nasties-and-more.html" target="_blank">launched a new childrens book</a>, which introduces local folklore and legends to younger audiences (wee video and book link below).<br />
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Recently, a campaign against local windfarm development in an area of archaeological significance has kicked off...<a href="https://www.facebook.com/KeepCorlicWild">Keep Corlic Wild</a>. The company involved in the development <a href="http://www.greenocktelegraph.co.uk/news/greenock/articles/2013/06/07/460192-corlic-hill-windfarm-plans-will-protect-historic-sites/">claims it will protect the nearby Roman sites.</a> <a href="https://www.change.org/petitions/inverclyde-council-stop-the-siting-of-a-proposed-wind-farm-at-corlic-hill?utm_campaign=friend_inviter_chat&utm_medium=facebook&utm_source=share_petition&utm_term=permissions_dialog_false" target="_blank">There's a petition you can sign against the development here</a>.<br />
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Inverclyde Council has also launched its new local development plan for consultation, <a href="http://www.inverclyde.gov.uk/news/2013/may/consultation-inverclyde-local-development-plan-2013/">have a read and have your say</a>.<br />
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And the Scottish Government have announced a new <a href="http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/Built-Environment/regeneration/investment/capitalgrants/rcgf" target="_blank">Regeneration Capital Grant programme</a>, to provide new and improved infrastructure to benefit the economic, social and physical environment of communities. It would be safe to expect a bid from this area, and it would nice to see the community properly engaged in this process, as per the Scottish Governments own <a href="http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Publications/2011/12/09110320/0" target="_blank">Achieving A Sustainable Future </a>strategy which says future regeneration activity must take account of lessons learned and focus on outcomes which <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">"<span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 16px;">put </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 16px;"><strong style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">communities first</strong></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 16px;">, effectively involving local residents in the regeneration process and empowering communities". </span></span><br />
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Progress, regeneration, development...all very familiar stories across the country. Earlier this year, the BBC ran a programme, <a href="http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p014fxzv">Heritage!</a>, which charted the pioneering campaign work of the individuals who set out to save so much of the built heritage we currently have left in this country. Indeed, Heritage Lottery have recently launched an excellent new funding stream <a href="http://www.hlf.org.uk/news/Pages/Lotteryfundingtostimulatelocaleconomiesbyunlockingunusedheritage.aspx#.UbM-eI5D2-I">Heritage Enterprise</a>, to try and find effective new uses for old buildings, a way to perhaps assist the economy without the frantic and often unnecessary desire for new build - <a href="http://www.guardian.co.uk/culture/2013/jun/09/westminster-world-heritage-status-risk" target="_blank">which threatens even the most historic locations</a>. The model suggests private and social enterprises working collaboratively in a genuine partnership to unlock potential of local spaces...something we've always seriously advocated...<br />
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Anyway, here's a wee video from our storytelling project with some local monsters in it, <a href="http://www.scribd.com/doc/146508341/Wee-Nasties" target="_blank">you can download a free copy of the book here</a>....and as ever, more regular heritage updates on our <a href="http://www.talesoftheoak.co.uk/" target="_blank">Tales of the Oak</a> blog.<br />
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<b>UPDATED 15 July 2013</b><br />
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There have been changes at local Urban Regeneration Company Riverside Inverclyde following a damning mid term report. Key staff have now left the programme, which has met only 7% of its local jobs targets in the 7 years it has been in existence, while levering in only 1% of the private investment it had projected. The "toxic" nature of the James Watt Dock site is mentioned in the report, which is not currently publicly available, <a href="http://www.heraldscotland.com/news/home-news/jobs-cost-320000-each-in-bid-to-revive-inverclyde.21592331" target="_blank">but is referenced in this Glasgow Herald article</a>. The <a href="http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-glasgow-west-23314933" target="_blank">"Riverside Inverclyde Fails"</a> story is also covered on BBC news.<br />
<br />Paul Bristowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06093165243350186267noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7100650439360581924.post-8833301203937923162012-09-03T08:00:00.000+01:002012-09-03T08:00:14.363+01:00Sweet Dreams...In June this year, the <a href="http://identityinverclyde.blogspot.co.uk/">Identity</a> project run by <a href="http://www.facebook.com/ICDTtheTrust">Inverclyde Community Development Trust</a>, worked with Riverside Inverclyde, James Watt Dock LLP and Inverclyde Council to secure the use of the Sugar Sheds for a one day performance of a locally produced drama. The script was written with pupils from St Columbas High School with the assistance of scriptwriter Danny McCahon (Casualty, Waterloo Road, Emmerdale). The drama retold the stories of local migrants who have passed through the area over the years and was produced as part of a project supported by <a href="http://www.hlf.org.uk/InYourArea/Scotland/Pages/Welcome.aspx">Heritage Lottery Fund Scotland</a>. I am lucky enough to be involved with this project, and the whole day was an exceptional experience, certainly amplified by the atmospherics of the Sheds. The performance will be available online and on DVD later in the year, but for now, here's a taste of the show...<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" frameborder="0" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/pY0HInPHURg" width="420"></iframe>
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Having been involved in the organisation of the Identity production, I better understand many of the difficulties of staging any event in the building - power, toilets, security, safe walking surfaces - all that doesn't magically appear; the space has none of these basic services - and none of it is cheap to hire in. But it can still be done. Likewise, the health and safety considerations of moving people in and out of the building are...challenging, with approval required from the Police and Fire services. But it can still be done. For us, it certainly helped the process that our one day event did not feature a bar - but equally, I know from talking to people over the last year, that's always one of the things most folk would like to see in there alongside live music.<br />
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A year on from the initial flurry and interest of the campaign, the <a href="http://www.jameswattdockmarina.co.uk/">marina</a> continues to be busy, with hopes for new business development and local jobs there and The Sugar Sheds and the James Watt Dock continue to be a focus and inspiration for arts and cultural activity; <a href="http://kimshift.blogspot.co.uk/2012/03/refreshing-realisations-cardboard-bay.html">Cardboard Bay</a> based on the Russian social arts project <a href="http://www.cardboardia.info/">Cardboardia</a>, has been funded to happen in the Sheds in the near future. The life and work of sculptor George Wylie will be celebrated across the West of Scotland by <a href="http://www.whysman.co.uk/news.html">The Whysman project</a>, there's an <a href="http://www.rigarts.org/george-wyllie-a-life-less-ordinary-1st-16th-sept/">exhibition at RIG Arts Gallery</a> and the project culminates in a massive steel question mark being suspended from the Titan Crane at the dock. Local music, one of the things people wanted to continue to see in the Sheds most of all, is being promoted by a new website which takes it's name from the buildings;<a href="http://www.thesugarsheds.com/"> The Sugar Sheds</a>, provides free listings to all local musicians, tutors, studios and events and is fast becoming one of the most well used local websites. And at least one other major arts project involving the Sheds is currently in development. As a space, it continues to inspire me personally - I wrote a few wee haiku the other week for my own blog <a href="http://paulbristow.blogspot.co.uk/2012/08/sugar-sheds-haiku.html">Stramashed</a> while I was walking down there and I've another wee ghost story on the go as well. For a real taste of how that inspiration can produce wonderful creative pieces, <a href="http://vimeo.com/40869581">check out Alistair Cook's filmpoem The God of Sugar</a>.<br />
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And now? In the short term, it would be nice to see more cultural opportunities down at the Sheds; with funding, time, genuine partnership working and resources, the Identity drama has shown that it can be done - in one small part of the Sugar Sheds, for one day. But what else can be done beyond these enjoyable, opportunistic events - is a long term plan for sustainability even possible now? The landscape locally and nationally for "regeneration" has changed dramatically, even in the last year. Any solution for the buildings lies, as it always did, in people, communities, agencies and organisations putting aside personal agendas, ideaologies and maybe even short term profit in favour of actually sitting down together to make things happen. That ship has yet to sail.<br />
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For now, while we wait, a shameless plug for another local project I'm involved with, <a href="http://www.facebook.com/TheDutchGableHouse">The Dutch Gable House</a>, which will be opening up on <a href="http://www.doorsopendays.org.uk/opendays/">Doors Open Day</a> on <a href="http://www.doorsopendays.org.uk/opendays/area_programmes.aspx?areaid=25">Saturday 8 / 9 September</a> - you'll be able to get free copies of our Heritage Lottery Fund supported <a href="http://identityinverclyde.blogspot.co.uk/2012/07/archivists-treasure.html">Graphic Novel</a> on the day - which includes a few wee Sugar Sheds pages. Come one, come all.<br />
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And <a href="http://talesoftheoak.blogspot.co.uk/p/magic-torch.html">Magic Torch</a>, the originators of the Sugar Sheds campaign have a <a href="http://talesoftheoak.blogspot.co.uk/2012/08/tales-of-oak-storiestwice-told.html">new storytelling project</a> starting later in September as well.<br />
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Sweet.<br />
<br />KeepSugarShedshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03892799357477238649noreply@blogger.com0Greenock, Inverclyde PA15 2AJ, UK55.9465583 -4.725681755.9443353 -4.7306172 55.9487813 -4.7207462tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7100650439360581924.post-12591569945164194442012-01-09T08:30:00.000+00:002012-01-13T18:01:48.759+00:00Recap<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Kinga Shinnen! As we now proper get into gear for the New Year, seems like a good opportunity to have a look at where we are at, how we got here and what we feel are important next steps. (some of this text is from our document "Sugar Sheds Discussion Paper", sent to Riverside Inverclyde in October of 2011)</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Following the success of the Tall Ships event in summer, <span style="color: #3100b0;"><a href="http://talesoftheoak.blogspot.com/">Magic Torch</a> </span>launched a campaign to urge that local politicians and the regeneration agency consider other opportunities for redeveloping the space.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">After discussion with Riverside Inverclyde, it was agreed that we would provide a brief breakdown of the potential programme that we would like to see in The Sugar Sheds, and that RI would consider leasing out parts of the Sheds to allow this to happen - dependent on what was being suggested. Theoretically, this would leave all responsibility for liability and insurance with the agency organising the events.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Magic Torch, through the campaign blog, <span style="color: #3100b0;"><a href="http://www.facebook.com/sugarsheds">facebook page</a> </span>and <span style="color: #3100b0;"><a href="http://keepsugarsheds.blogspot.com/2011/09/there-will-be-balloons.html">local events</a></span>, have undertaken substantial community engagement in order to listen to what interested people felt was most effective within the Sheds, and what people would like to see there again - if anything. We have also visited a number of community led regeneration projects and spoken to national organisations such as <span style="color: #3100b0;">T<a href="http://www.scottishcivictrust.org.uk/">he Scottish Civic Trust</a> </span>to look for successful models of historic building use. The programme and suggestions outlined below are based on that listening exercise.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">In short though, it can happen; without even having to leave Scotland you can visit a number of successful projects housed within historic buildings providing community benefit, effectively housing and incubating social enterprises, creating employment and directly involving the local community in their management and development. You just canʼt visit one in Inverclyde. Yet.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Maybe in the cold dark of 2012, ideas like these are less likely to happen. We are told daily now how little money there is, how hard life is going to be this year, how there are tough times ahead. Fair enough. And yes, it's entirely possible, that the James Watt Dock LLP will be less likely to invest in the James Watt Dock site following a cut to Riverside Inverclyde's funding. Also, art and culture related programmes or big obvious events can be a hard sell in a cold climate - just look at how some people reacted to the Tall Ships itself last year, or think about how you feel about much the <a href="http://www.heraldscotland.com/news/home-news/what-will-the-olympics-do-for-scotland.16390732">Olympics</a> is costing this year, or the Commonwealth Games in 2014. We are all more savvy now, more suspicious, and talk of the income generated by such events, or the legacies they create are no longer accepted without question. And in a world where disgruntled public opinion can now instantly blossom into national outrage and scandal, maybe everyone is more wary of commitment and decision without being clear "what happens next?". Okay. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">So, let's at least try and establish whether there's any mileage in ANY of this, sharpish. Funding for any of this programme would have to be secured fairly quickly now anyway...</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">What we outline below is a draft for a potential programme to run from Spring through to Autumn 2012. It is reliant on</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">- Relevant permissions/leases from RI </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">- The financial implications of covering the H&S at the site (though nothing here suggested would be on the same scale as the Tall Ships) </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">- Partnership working with other Inverclyde groups, agencies, employers and volunteers who have all offered to help since the outset of the campaign </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">- Securing funding for some of the events (others form parts of already funded projects and programmes, we are just providing a focal point for them at The Sugar Sheds)</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">So, easy peasy.This pilot programme will be a mixture of funded community events and ticketed shows / performances. The ticketed events will test the financial viability of running a regular programme. Therefore some of the non-funded events may be undertaken with an element of financial risk to the organisers.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">A local voluntary organisation, separate from Riverside Inverclyde, apply for and source the funding for various elements of the programme. Any local voluntary organisation will also be able to access funding for employees to support the project, either in management, or delivery through either the <span style="color: #3100b0;">Inverclyde Future Jobs programme</span>, Graduate Opportunities Programme, or <span style="color: #3100b0;">SCVOs Community Jobs </span>programme. We will potentially help create some local employment opportunities from the outset.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">At the moment, the suggested model for moving forward with the management of the events is that RI would potentially lease space to an organisation, and that they would manage the liabilities etc. It may be more effective and realistic to undertake this collaboratively.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">RI already have an understanding of what the H&S issues are with the site and of the costs of making the area safe and secure, so would be best placed to advise on this. For example, is it possible to use the rear doors of the Sheds to entry to events, thus minimising the need for fencing along the dockside / disruption to the marina.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Equally, it would help any funding bids tremendously, if RI were able to provide “in-kind” contributions through some of the lets of the space, or solutions to the H&S / liability issues, which are likely to be the most complex part of using the space effectively.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Initially RI have offered Shed A for usage, however it would certainly be more effective in some circumstances to be able to also use Shed B.</span></div>
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Potential Programme : April - September 2012</span></b></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">The most popularly discussed use for the space is clearly as a music venue. We have had no shortage of music promoters / bands offer to organise events or perform in The Sheds. Here, the most sensible model would be to use Shed B for performance, and retain Shed A for bar use. Potential events could include</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">- Launch Night : scottish band showcase </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">- Inverclyde Schools Choir - Battle of the School Bands (linked to a funded schools music programme) </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">- Battle of the Local Bands (with bands selected during a series of heats in local venues prior to a final in The Sugar Sheds)</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Inverclyde Community Development Trust are currently running <span style="color: #3100b0;">“<a href="http://identityinverclyde.blogspot.com/">Identity</a>”</span>, a Heritage Lottery Funded Project. The £155,000 project will continue throughout 2012, focussing on collecting local family histories and exploring emmigration over the last 200 years. There are a number of project outputs which could be directly linked to The Sugar Sheds.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">- <span style="color: #3100b0;"><a href="http://identityinverclyde.blogspot.com/2011/10/st-stephens-graphic-novel-page.html">Graphic Novel </a></span>launch / comic art exhibition. The project is producing 5000 copies of a graphic novel, with stories and pages created by every local school in the area. These are to be distributed for free. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">- Dramatic performance of some of the emmigration stories collected. This is to be a public performance. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">- Social history exhibition focussing on the German and Irish migrant workers who were the main workforce in the areas sugar developing sugar industry in the 19th Century.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Magic Torch would also apply for funding to allow local people to create their own social history exhibitions alongside displays on areas of less well known heritage. (Seventies Childhood, Red Clydeside, Woman in Industry, local music scene 50s - 80s) All of these would have short stays within Shed A.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Local Artist <span style="color: #3100b0;"><a href="http://www.alecgalloway.co.uk/">Alec Galloway</a> </span>is piloting an <span style="color: #3100b0;"><a href="http://www.facebook.com/absentvoices">artist in residence scheme</a></span>, and we have discussed how to expand and further develop this project throughout next year, involving artists and local people to create a body of work for exhibition within the sheds.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Gourock based artist George Wylie celebrates his 90th birthday this year. A campaign to see his work more widely celebrated <a href="http://www.scotsman.com/news/joan_mcalpine_salute_to_genius_finally_established_1_2035128">has been very successful so far</a>, with a new <a href="http://www.whysman.co.uk/news.html">"Whys Man" festival to celebrate his work planned</a>. Perhaps we could see a symposium of his work hosted at the Sheds?</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">On one weekend of each month, make reasonably priced pitches in Shed B available to Farmers Market / European Fayre / Arts Fayre / Vintage Clothing / secondhand books.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">As part of the process, at some point during this pilot, and to underline the potential of community involvement in further development of The Sheds, it would be helpful to run a consultation event / listening exercise around meaningful local placemaking<span style="color: #3100b0;"> </span>and development such as <span style="color: #3100b0;"><a href="http://scottishrenaissancetowns.com/">Renaissance Town initiative</a> </span>or <span style="color: #3100b0;"><a href="http://www.localleadership.gov.uk/totalplace/">Total Place</a></span>. This would be in line with <a href="http://keepsugarsheds.blogspot.com/2011/12/regeneration-game-new-rules.html">Scottish Government's new guidance on placing local people at the heart of the regeneration process</a>.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">All events will culminate on Doors Open Day Weekend 2012. Our new arts centre, The Beacon formally opens in September 2012 (after the completion of this programme) and there would almost certainly be a way to link the two in a way which benefits both audiences and local people.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">We have approached a number of touring “pod based” exhibitions which are too large for the McLean museum to house (<span style="color: #3100b0;"><a href="http://www.nhm.ac.uk/business-centre/touring-exhibitions/exhibitions/age-of-dinosaur/index.html">Age of the Dinosaur</a></span>, <span style="color: #3100b0;"><a href="http://www.nhm.ac.uk/business-centre/touring-exhibitions/exhibitions/isa/index.html">Ice Station Antarctica</a></span>) these are generally booked many months in advance, so unlikely for inclusion next year, however it is helpful to know the costs for such events, which in themselves, provide potential draws to the area and income generation opportunities. Hosting such high profile national exhibitions directly builds on the notion of making Inverclyde a destination, one of the intended outcomes of the Tall Ships event.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">There are also other local media opportunities to be explored such as - internet radio / podcasts linked to the Sugar Sheds (though not necessarily broadcast from there) - documentary dvd exploring both the history of the sheds and following the pilot project across the next year, including performances from bands / artists involved</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">One very popular suggestion for this year, was a Halloween event, involving a number of partners, exhibits and performances. This could be developed as a commercial opportunity for 2012 and include </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">- ghost tours / storytelling</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">- Inverclyde House of Horrors </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">- bands and disco </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">- Horror Films projected by Greenock Waterfront Cinema </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Such events seem frivolous, but in fact prove popular all across the country, and could of course dovetail into Inverclyde Councilʼs “Myths and Legends” event. All of the above events will provide measurable local involvement, volunteering and employment.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">This suggested programme focusses solely on events which could happen within The Sugar Sheds over six months, it does not directly address the longer term potential of the space, which may yet be most effective by involving some element of community lease / ownership. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">We still firmly believe that further exploration of such alternative uses and models is a responsibility of politicians and the urban regeneration company, not just volunteer campaigners. Hopefully this next year will provide a chance to test and explore this potential.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">However, there are a number of opportunities which are also worth considering in the short term, as a number of grants currently exist to help make them a reality.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">The Sugar Sheds present many challenges, not least how to develop effectively inside a historically protected space. Make those challenges the focus of a brief, launched as a national competition. What is required is a scheme which can be created in a phased way inside each shed, does not significantly alter the existing fabric, provides a mix of “pod” style flexible space for businesses / community organisations, alongside actual building conversions, utilises sustainable energy and is affordable enough to be done a shed at a time. It also once again taps into the heritage and enterprise of the James Watt Dock itself, designed of course, by the winner of an architectural competition. Well, the runner up.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Sustainable Energy <a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_1385841487">C</a><span style="color: #3100b0;"><a href="http://www.communityenergyscotland.org.uk/">ommunity Energy Scotland</a> </span>have grants available for feasibility studies in effective development and use of renewable and sustainable energy. How can the Sugar Sheds be heated economically? Are there precedents for historic buildings generating energy through solar or hydro power? Could the sheds reduce potential future running costs and potentially generate income through energy efficiency? Surely worth exploring.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">So, there we are. But big talk is easy. Doing things is hard. Let's see how we go shall we? </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">And if this all looks like a waste of time, well...there's always the Custom House or the Tobacco Warehouse to be thinking about instead eh?</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Sweet.</span></div>Paul Bristowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06093165243350186267noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7100650439360581924.post-56423151628849803322011-12-30T09:29:00.000+00:002011-12-30T09:29:00.739+00:00Some Candy TalkingThe wee Sugar Sheds inspired ghost story "Candy Bones" has been shortlised in The Woman In Black Ghost Story competition. If you haven't already, why not pop over to youtube and give it a watch.<br />
It's a very short story, will only take up two minutes of your time, and if you like it, please give it a wee thumbs up on youtube. The prize if it wins is not fortune, but glory, as it would appear on "The Woman In Black" dvd as an extra...how's that for giving the Sugar Sheds a new audience. Well, a new audience of people that watch DVD extras...Sadly however, if successful, for reasons of international understanding, my voice would be replaced and the story read by someone called "Daniel Radcliffe".<br />
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And if that story isn't really for you...then don't worry...there's 9 others on there to choose from.<br />
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<a href="http://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL5FF1EC07C7866496&feature=plcp">Check out The Woman In Black's youtube channel</a>.<br />
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Sweet.Paul Bristowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06093165243350186267noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7100650439360581924.post-24312953044555513062011-12-16T09:55:00.000+00:002011-12-16T09:55:16.686+00:00Candy Canes and Gingerbread Sheds<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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This week in Sugar Sheds related news...<a href="http://www.greenocktelegraph.co.uk/news/gourock/articles/2011/12/09/420923-riverside-inverclydes-future-still-in-doubt/#latest">there's a further lifeline for Riverside Inverclyde</a>; the piece here definetly suggests that some of that involves seeking lottery funding for future projects..something we have suggested around the Sugar Sheds from the very start. <br />
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Successful lottery funding requires significant and genuine local consultation, involvement and even partnership. There's a way yet to make this all start working for everyone, and lots of options to explore; there's <a href="http://www.biglotteryfund.org.uk/prog_growing_community_assets?regioncode=-sco">Big Lottery's Growing Community Assets Fund</a>; there's <a href="http://www.scvo.org.uk/scvo-media-release/new-50m-scheme-to-build-third-sector-business-centres-across-scotland/">SCVO and Unity Trust Bank's 50million loan scheme for third sector / social enterprise business centres</a>; and of course <a href="http://www.hlf.org.uk/HowToApply/programmes/Pages/programmes.aspx">it's been a while since Inverclyde secured any major capital funding through Heritage Lottery Fund Scotland</a>. Not to mention new funding available for events through <a href="http://www.creativescotland.com/2012-2014/year-of-creative-scotland">Creative Scotland 2012 Year of Creativity.</a> And those are just the top of the google search. All this of course is set against the publication of <a href="https://docs.google.com/open?id=0BwmOzKDAkj8rMzZkOGMzYzEtYzA5NC00OTI2LThkZDItNTFjMzhmZTQxMTNm">Scottish Governments new Regeneration Strategy, firmly placing local people at the heart of regeneration .</a> Everything to play for.<br />
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So. Six months on, as the year ends, thanks very much to everyone who has helped out, kept in contact and stuck with us; a successful campaign is more than a facebook click, but from the initial flurry around that page, we've been able to get discussions with the people who can influence this situation and meet many people who've successfully fought for change elsewhere. Next year what we're after is some action. Here.<br />
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<strong>For now, festive fun...</strong><br />
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Two of the bands who helped out with our <a href="http://keepsugarsheds.blogspot.com/p/celebration-ode.html">Celebration Ode recordings</a> have recorded Christmas tunes. I'm a sucker for Christmas tunes.<br />
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<a href="http://www.myspace.com/571262448">Ard Amas have "It's Christmas" and some other new tunes on their myspace</a>.<br />
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<a href="http://www.facebook.com/iheartsneakypete?ref=ts">Sneaky Pete have a new tune dropping this weekend as well</a>.<br />
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And local band <a href="http://www.greenocktelegraph.co.uk/news/gourock/articles/2011/12/12/420970-greenock-band-release-charity-single/">The Purple Doves</a> have released a charity single for Christmas with all proceeds going to Ryan Ferguson's Leukaemia Fund. <a href="http://itunes.apple.com/gb/album/ryans-leukaemia-fund-in-aid/id485103840">Buy it now on itunes</a>.<br />
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Over on our heritage blog <a href="http://talesoftheoak.blogspot.com/">Tales of the Oak</a>, we're curating our Ghost Stories For Christmas throughout December.<br />
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And on my own blog <a href="http://paulbristow.blogspot.com/">Stramashed</a>, you can find out all about Santa's Little Werewolves.<br />
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See you all next year.<br />
Here's a few wee sugary Christmas tunes...<br />
Sweet.<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/videoseries?list=PL39ABB0E99480331A&hl=en_GB" width="560"></iframe>Paul Bristowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06093165243350186267noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7100650439360581924.post-27169957479674590892011-12-12T15:01:00.001+00:002011-12-12T21:24:34.209+00:00The Regeneration Game - New Rules<br />
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The Scottish Government have released their new regeneration strategy. <a href="https://docs.google.com/open?id=0BwmOzKDAkj8rMzZkOGMzYzEtYzA5NC00OTI2LThkZDItNTFjMzhmZTQxMTNm">Well worth a read</a>.<br />
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An initial scan reveals a number of areas which could impact on any future regeneration projects based around the Sheds (and of course everywhere else!).<br />
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<em>First and foremost, we have a handy definition for what is actually considered "regeneration".</em><br />
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<strong>Regeneration is the holistic process of reversing the economic, physical and social decline of places where market forces alone won’t suffice. This holistic theme runs throughout this Strategy and forms the basis for the propositions and conclusions.</strong></div>
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<em>Good start. Holistic is good. Provided everyone's signed up to being holistic of course. </em></div>
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<em>A number of key themes were identified in the initial discussion papers which informed the report. </em><br />
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<span style="font-family: ArialMT; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: ArialMT; font-size: small;">- Clarification on the roles and responsibilities that different organisations have in delivering regeneration</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: ArialMT; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: ArialMT; font-size: small;">- Recognition that a <strong>coordinated approach</strong> <strong>is needed at a local level</strong> and across public services to tackle area-based disadvantage</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: ArialMT; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: ArialMT; font-size: small;">- <strong>The importance of community led regeneration</strong></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: ArialMT; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: ArialMT; font-size: small;">- Recognition of the constraints on public sector finances alongside a continued <strong>need for appropriate grant support and innovative funding solutions</strong></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: ArialMT; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: ArialMT; font-size: small;">- The importance of <strong>placemaking</strong> in supporting successful communities</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: ArialMT; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: ArialMT; font-size: small;">- Support for town centres as a central part of community life</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: ArialMT; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: ArialMT; font-size: small;"><em>Hmmm. Liking where the community appear to be placed in this regeneration process. Mind you, we have all heard similar things before. The strategy recognises some of the ingredients for regeneration which has been measurably successful;</em></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: ArialMT; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: ArialMT; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: ArialMT; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: ArialMT; font-size: small;"></span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: ArialMT; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: ArialMT; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: ArialMT; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: ArialMT; font-size: small;">Our future regeneration activity must focus on outcomes and take account of lessons learned. The key success factors for designing and delivering regeneration interventions, are detailed below. Public, private and third sector partners should consider these key elements when delivering regeneration locally.</span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: ArialMT; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: ArialMT; font-size: small;">- puts </span></span><b><span style="font-family: Arial-BoldMT; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial-BoldMT; font-size: small;">communities first</span></span><span style="font-family: ArialMT; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: ArialMT; font-size: small;">, effectively involving local residents in the regeneration process and empowering communities</span></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: ArialMT; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: ArialMT; font-size: small;">- is </span></span><b><span style="font-family: Arial-BoldMT; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial-BoldMT; font-size: small;">holistic</span></span><span style="font-family: ArialMT; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: ArialMT; font-size: small;">, making connections between the physical, social and economic dimensions</span></span></b></div>
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- <span style="font-family: ArialMT; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: ArialMT; font-size: small;">adopts a long-term vision for a places and focuses the on the safety and </span></span><b><span style="font-family: Arial-BoldMT; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial-BoldMT; font-size: small;">quality of places</span></span></b> <br />
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<span style="font-family: ArialMT; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: ArialMT; font-size: small;">- takes account of the specific function of neighbourhoods and <strong>integrates regeneration initiatives</strong> into wider </span></span><span style="font-family: Arial-BoldMT; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial-BoldMT; font-size: small;">economic strategies</span></span> <br />
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<span style="font-family: ArialMT; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: ArialMT; font-size: small;">- makes tailored interventions to link economic opportunity and need to </span></span><span style="font-family: Arial-BoldMT; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial-BoldMT; font-size: small;">address worklessness </span></span><span style="font-family: ArialMT; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: ArialMT; font-size: small;">and deliver <strong>sustainable quality employment</strong></span></span></div>
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- <span style="font-family: ArialMT; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: ArialMT; font-size: small;">is supported by simple and aligned </span></span><span style="font-family: Arial-BoldMT; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial-BoldMT; font-size: small;">funding streams </span></span><span style="font-family: ArialMT; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: ArialMT; font-size: small;">and maximises the impact from </span></span><span style="font-family: Arial-BoldMT; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial-BoldMT; font-size: small;">mainstream resource </span></span><span style="font-family: ArialMT; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: ArialMT; font-size: small;">by better integration with place-based interventions</span></span> <br />
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<span style="font-family: ArialMT; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: ArialMT; font-size: small;">- Has </span></span><span style="font-family: Arial-BoldMT; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial-BoldMT; font-size: small;">strong leadership </span></span><span style="font-family: ArialMT; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: ArialMT; font-size: small;">with clear accountability and makes effective use of </span></span><span style="font-family: Arial-BoldMT; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial-BoldMT; font-size: small;"><strong>partnership working</strong>, </span></span><span style="font-family: ArialMT; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: ArialMT; font-size: small;">involving the private sector, both in investment and in shaping ideas and development.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: ArialMT; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: ArialMT; font-size: small;"><em>The really interesting stuff for me is from page 20 "Community Led Regeneration. Local People Delivering Local Change", which outlines exactly how communities will be able to influence regeneration processes and what resource will be made available from Government to assist. Here's a few highlights, then seriously, <a href="https://docs.google.com/open?id=0BwmOzKDAkj8rMzZkOGMzYzEtYzA5NC00OTI2LThkZDItNTFjMzhmZTQxMTNm">go read the report</a>.</em></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: ArialMT; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: ArialMT; font-size: small;">Community led regeneration is about local people identifying for themselves the issues and opportunities in their areas, deciding what to do about them, and being responsible for delivering the economic, social and environmental action that will make a difference. It is dependent on the energy and commitment of local people themselves and has a wide range of benefits.</span></span></div>
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Community led regeneration covers a spectrum of activity from committed volunteers coming together informally to campaign or act, to the work of enterprising local community anchor organisations like Development Trusts and community based housing associations.</div>
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Building on the success of the Wider Role fund and recognising the important role that Registered Social Landlords (RSLs) and other community groups like Development Trusts play in delivering change at a local level, we have developed the <strong>People and Communities Fund</strong>. This fund forms part of the overarching Regeneration Investment Fund.</div>
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The <strong>Scottish Government will provide £7.9m per annum from 2012 to 2015 </strong>to support the People and Communities Fund, <strong>specifically to promote and support community led regeneration</strong>. The details of this fund will be announced in 2012, however, activity will include:<br />
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<span style="font-family: ArialMT; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: ArialMT; font-size: small;">- Building on the Wider Role fund, funding to support and strengthen local community anchor organisations across Scotland, including RSLs and Development Trusts. These will be organisations that deliver local</span></span><span lang="ZH-TW" style="font-family: Wingdings-Regular; font-size: small;"><span lang="ZH-TW" style="font-family: Wingdings-Regular; font-size: small;"> <span style="font-family: ArialMT; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: ArialMT; font-size: small;">support for community asset ownership through the Community Ownership Support Service. This service, provided through the Development Trusts Association Scotland (DTAS), provides help and advice to community organisations interested in asset ownership.</span></span> </span></span><span style="font-family: ArialMT; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: ArialMT; font-size: small;"></span></span> <br />
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<span style="font-family: ArialMT; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: ArialMT; font-size: small;">- Investment in a new community capacity building programme. This will focus on areas where there are currently few local organisations, weak networks amongst local people and where local people's skills and confidence need to be nurtured. It will have a focus on helping people to decide how budgets in their areas are spent.</span></span></div>
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</span></span></span></span><br /><em>Lots more to read, and as ever, the devil isn't so much in the detail as in the reality of local delivery, but certainly this would seem to give a clear nod as to where regeneration initiatives will be steered from next year. Interesting times.</em></span></span></div>
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</span></span></span></span>Paul Bristowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06093165243350186267noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7100650439360581924.post-3420817358474557502011-12-02T09:41:00.000+00:002011-12-02T09:41:55.812+00:00A Ghost Story for Christmas<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
I know its been a wee while since our last update, but there’s been a fairly major development in the ongoing Story of The Sugar Sheds.</div>
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If you follow our local press, you’ll maybe be aware that <a href="http://www.greenocktelegraph.co.uk/news/gourock/articles/2011/11/03/419292-leader-slams-regeneration-axe/">local regeneration company Riverside Inverclyde has had its funding dramatically reduced</a>, making the outlook for them <a href="http://www.greenocktelegraph.co.uk/news/gourock/articles/2011/11/03/419294-msp-ri-can-survive-until-2016/">post 2012/13 very challenging indeed</a>. At this early stage, there are obviously <a href="http://www.greenocktelegraph.co.uk/news/greenock/articles/2011/11/23/420110-plea-for-answers-over-fund-cuts/">many questions</a> still to be asked about all of this, and what projects RI are going to be able to focus on over the next 18 months. But clearly, whatever the outcome, developments and plans for the James Watt Dock / Sugar Sheds are likely to be affected.</div>
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So that’s that then eh? Let’s just leave it. Eh…nope. If anything, this kind of uncertainty over “what next” requires more attention. Next year, it’s our plan to keep the Sugar Sheds on the agenda, at the very least, <a href="https://docs.google.com/viewer?a=v&pid=explorer&chrome=true&srcid=0BwmOzKDAkj8rYTQyOTljYmMtNDZkMy00YTBmLWFkMjEtZWE4NTI3YjQzNjJh&hl=en_GB&pli=1">we still think there’s some mileage in our outlined programme of events</a>. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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In the meantime, with the nights drawing in and the nip in the air, here’s a short Sugar Sheds inspired Ghost Story For Christmas, “Candy Bones”. There’s a whole month of this sort of festive malarkey over on our <a href="http://talesoftheoak.blogspot.com/">Tales of The Oak blog</a>.</div>
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/9RYFJzFvAlA" width="400"></iframe>Paul Bristowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06093165243350186267noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7100650439360581924.post-79612015873684689692011-11-02T20:00:00.000+00:002011-11-02T20:00:00.204+00:00Candy Skeletons<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI-3tts_GruIKS2IQT3rPjUXWauv65HEOJ-HMyXGnWaAyo30u6E1bUFwzEmx9kCUUlfvCQK559SAlaxKYL2KBZvZzDrV0oZQbSSVrktu-_J83uBwaHdDqdtOSPBkJC80AFNoncl8TUD0Ff/s1600/imagesCAGFI3P0.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" ida="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI-3tts_GruIKS2IQT3rPjUXWauv65HEOJ-HMyXGnWaAyo30u6E1bUFwzEmx9kCUUlfvCQK559SAlaxKYL2KBZvZzDrV0oZQbSSVrktu-_J83uBwaHdDqdtOSPBkJC80AFNoncl8TUD0Ff/s320/imagesCAGFI3P0.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<em>Here's our piece from todays <a href="http://www.greenocktelegraph.co.uk/">Greenock Telegraph</a>...</em><br />
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The darker side of The Sugar Sheds history was explored last week when psychic medium Joan Charles took a tour around the iconic buildings with local heritage enthusiasts.</div>
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Joan has spent the last few months exploring mysterious and unusual locations across the <country-region w:st="on"><place w:st="on">UK</place></country-region> and she was really glad to get the opportunity to investigate in her own area.</div>
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“The minute I walked in, I felt the atmosphere was very oppressive, just a real feeling of being trapped, not just physically, but maybe..financially. The people who worked in here had a very hard life inside and out of the Sheds. A lot of illness and disease.”</div>
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Construction on The Sugar Sheds began in 1885, with the buildings being completed 125 years ago in 1886. Thousands of people have worked in and passed through The Sheds since then, including German and Irish workers, something which Joan picked up on immediately.</div>
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“There was a real sense of multiculturalism there, not just in terms of the ships docking, but the people working, the people stuck inside. I was getting real Dutch and Canadian connections as well.”</div>
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Joan was in no doubt about one thing,</div>
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“People have died there. I was getting a man who had died in a fire there, trapped inside. Not the recent fire, before that.” </div>
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Paul Bristow is part of the Keep Greenock Sugar Sheds a Community Space campaign, and as a member of Magic Torch, has been researching and writing about local heritage and folklore for over ten years.</div>
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“With old buildings, there’s always a strange feeling, a sort of absence, spaces which were once so full of people and life, now empty and silent. The Sheds are a tremendously atmospheric space, and I was really interested to see what someone a bit more sensitively tuned to that space than myself might be able to find out! We’ve worked with Joan a few times before in exploring local spaces with a bit of dark history.”</div>
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Paul was really interested in some of the areas Joan was talking about which he had not heard before.</div>
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“Joan was particularly interested in the remains of the lift shaft in Shed A, a site which anecdotally has been the location for a number of deaths within The Sheds over the years. There were a few things which we’ll have to check up on, a number of specific family names and related events, other instances of fire within the building, and also the possibility that there were ever coffins stored within the sheds. It’s good to have a few new lines of enquiry.”</div>
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Following the success of The Tall Ships in <place w:st="on">Greenock</place> earlier this summer, The Sugar Sheds have been the focus of a local campaign to see more events hosted there.</div>
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Two multinationals and a number of community groups are discussing potential future uses for The Sugar Sheds with the buildings owners, James Watt Dock LLP. The LLP are currently accepting expressions of interest from Events Management Organisations looking at developing commercial events in this unique location. </div>
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One of the more popular suggestions for events within the space was a Halloween event with music, horror films and ghost hunting based on Joan’s initial experiences, there’s certainly plenty there to find!</div>
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Just to keep you jangling...here's the theme tune from Clive Barker's horror film The Candyman...(the original short story was set in Liverpool, another "sugar town")<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/3jjLMm7C2EY" width="420"></iframe>Paul Bristowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06093165243350186267noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7100650439360581924.post-23965368494372111812011-10-29T10:00:00.000+01:002011-10-29T10:00:02.799+01:00Candy Apples<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzqV5DUG2L3Lc8QB59X0GH4QpZWCIKqZeJk9W6Lo0M0W1lF32VsZ6ZmCtrXfuG_pgZFDg_x3DXmInxyfjDx3-nv4OV4tjVlTi36y5msu6jyJOtFiytMvTf1sRUB4yXJ1S0qe2lV4uggHzD/s1600/170px-Lyle%2527sGoldenSyrup.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" ida="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzqV5DUG2L3Lc8QB59X0GH4QpZWCIKqZeJk9W6Lo0M0W1lF32VsZ6ZmCtrXfuG_pgZFDg_x3DXmInxyfjDx3-nv4OV4tjVlTi36y5msu6jyJOtFiytMvTf1sRUB4yXJ1S0qe2lV4uggHzD/s320/170px-Lyle%2527sGoldenSyrup.jpg" width="276" /></a></div>
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It was Greenock’s very own Abram Lyle who discovered Golden Syrup in 1883, back in the days when civic leaders and businessmen were also pioneering inventors, adventurers, philanthropists and general all rounders. </div>
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Golden Syrup is beloved by many, and at this time of year, is an absolutely critical ingredient in right good Candy Apples for Halloween. (It’s also very useful for making Gingerbread Sheds..but more of that nearer Christmas..)</div>
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<strong><u>Ingredients</u></strong></div>
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30 apples</div>
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5 cups of white sugar</div>
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½ cup Golden Syrup</div>
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1 ½ cups water</div>
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2 tsp blackcurrant syrup</div>
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Place lollipop sticks or wooden craft sticks into each apple at the stem end. Set aside.</div>
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In a heavy saucepan, mix together the sugar, golden syrup and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium and continue to cook until the mixture reaches 300 to 310 degrees F (149 to 154 degrees C), or until a small amount of syrup dropped into cold water forms hard, brittle threads. This will take a good 45 minutes!</div>
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Remove the sugar mixture from the heat and stir in the black currant syrup. Quickly dip all of the apples, holding them by the stick. You can let them cool by inserting the other end of the stick into a thick sheet of foam board. If that is not available, set the coated apples onto waxed paper or aluminum foil. Make sure they don't touch each other.</div>
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Nomm. Nomm. Nomm.</div>
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If yer after a more traditional recipe, or don’t actually want to make 30 Candy Apples at one go…<a href="http://stubbs.hubpages.com/hub/How-To-Make-Candy-Apples">try here</a>.</div>
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And don’t forget that before giving any visiting Galoshans Candy Apples, they must perform The Galoshans Play.</div>
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<a href="http://www.scribd.com/doc/67328992/The-Galoshans-Play" style="-x-system-font: none; display: block; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 14px Helvetica, Arial, Sans-serif; margin: 12px auto 6px; text-decoration: underline;" title="View The Galoshans Play on Scribd">The Galoshans Play</a><iframe class="scribd_iframe_embed" data-aspect-ratio="0.706697459584296" data-auto-height="true" frameborder="0" height="600" id="doc_65278" scrolling="no" src="http://www.scribd.com/embeds/67328992/content?start_page=1&view_mode=list&access_key=key-x8g0fpp99mtywwbzgz1" width="100%"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">
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</script>Paul Bristowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06093165243350186267noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7100650439360581924.post-68804753546374916012011-10-28T09:33:00.000+01:002011-10-28T09:33:53.181+01:00"Heritage + Development = ?"<div>
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Yesterday we were fortunate enough to attend the Scottish Civic Trust's conference on heritage, regeneration and development, a great opportunity to hear from the people leading the field in placemaking and civic pride. <br />
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We heard social, cultural and crucially, economic arguments for use and redevelopment of older buildings; historic building restoration uses fewer resources and creates more employment than new builds. It was incredibly refreshing to hear architects and government agencies commenting very clearly on the measurable benefits of involving the community in development of projects and programmes, beyond the superficial and passive notions of simply commenting on plans which have already been drawn.<br />
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There is a renewed emphasis too on energy efficiency in historic building adapatation, with grants currently available for buildings like The Sugar Sheds to explore the feasibility of sustainable energy use as part of any redevelopment.<br />
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From the <a href="http://www.argyll-bute.gov.uk/content/chord-town-centre-regeneration-projects">Chord Projects</a> just over the water in Helensburgh, through to <a href="http://www.clydewaterfront.com/projects/greater-govan--glasgow-harbour/public-amenity/govanhistoricbuildings">Govan's redevelopments</a> and the <a href="http://www.govanfolkuniversity.org/">Govan Folk University</a> and on to <a href="http://www.maryhillburghhalls.org.uk/">Maryhill Burgh Halls Trust</a>...none of these are projects and processes a million miles away..all of these wonderful places and ideas are within half an hours drive. Those communities, agencies and architects have worked collaboratively to realise their shared vision. Surely we're not talking <em>such</em> a massive cultural leap to make similar things happen down here. Though obviously, what was clear from all involved was the time effort and energy that has been invested by all partners in making these ideas a reality. Here are projects which have developed with imagination, vitality and risk, daring to push beyond the minimum expected standard, and creating something all the more special as a result. The question we should ask ourselves and our civic leaders is not "why not here?" but "when do we start?".<br />
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More than anything, we came away convinced that such regeneration and development is possible when all parties involved are able to sit down respectfully and work together to be greater than the sum of their parts. It can happen, it can be done. Even here. And wouldn't it be great, if in the future, Inverclyde's regeneration of The Sugar Sheds was able to be recognised as an example of innovation and best practice in the same way that these projects and programmes are now. <br />
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Next, we're off to visit <a href="http://www.outoftheblue.org.uk/">Out of the Blue</a> through in Edinburgh, a former Drill Hall, now the centre of a thriving cultural community...<br />
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If you are feeling like getting inspired by bold new building designs in old spaces, you can read a great new document from Historic Scotland and Archticture and Design Scotland, <a href="http://www.ads.org.uk/download/6104-new-design-in-historic-settings">"New Design in Historic Settings"</a> which was launched at the conference.<br />
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An inspiring day, thank you very much to the <a href="http://www.scottishcivictrust.org.uk/">Scottish Civic Trust</a>.Paul Bristowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06093165243350186267noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7100650439360581924.post-8063819674873444802011-10-24T19:00:00.000+01:002011-10-24T19:00:03.334+01:00Event Management Opportunity?!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIPERM-FIld1HnNKD8-xTTru6R49xFuSDDbSh6ZlRVVTOLQ2An_q4XFlqlmYv1vxiaeG90Q0QQZV42eGIqzHlpbtPrhVeLv_LCh-G622f6dOkBlQUYzZYj4Rwtsv1wOUqVCIcvZfoBu6s6/s1600/aaaAdvert.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" rda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIPERM-FIld1HnNKD8-xTTru6R49xFuSDDbSh6ZlRVVTOLQ2An_q4XFlqlmYv1vxiaeG90Q0QQZV42eGIqzHlpbtPrhVeLv_LCh-G622f6dOkBlQUYzZYj4Rwtsv1wOUqVCIcvZfoBu6s6/s400/aaaAdvert.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Check it out! <a href="http://www.james-watt-dock.com/">James Watt Dock LLP</a> are offering Event Management organisations the opportunity to propose events and programmes within The Sugar Sheds. Could this be the beginning of The Sheds being utilised longer term as an events venue? This is what many, many people who had signed up to the campaign wanted to see.<br />
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Certainly, <a href="http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-glasgow-west-15429789">following the success of the venue at The Tall Ships</a>, we're really glad to see the recognition of the space in this way. Hats off to RI for taking the time to explore other opportunities. I also don't think it is at all unfair or unreasonable to say that without so many peoples suggestions, interest and efforts and the subsequent national coverage of the Sugar Sheds campaign, the market might not have been getting tested in this way at all.<br />
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A lot of events management teams and promoters, local and national, got in contact with us in the weeks following the start of the campaign. I really hope some of them take the opportunity to explore their suggestions for The Sugar Sheds further. We'd certainly be interested in helping that happen in any way we can.<br />
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Critically though, we would continue to hope that there is also room for local investment, involvement and employment in the ongoing development of The Sugar Sheds...after all, the local community will be the lynchpin in the sustainability of the space in the longer term. <br />
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Recently, I had a "robust debate", with someone who was not convined by the notion of The Sugar Sheds as "a community space". His feeling was that we had enough community centres and "places for junkies and old folk to go to". As someone who has managed a community centre in my day job, I take a wee bit of exception to that...but I think I understand what he was piledriving at. Our notion was never that the sheds be turned into a big giant subsidised community centre, that isn't how we would define a community space; art galleries are community space, swimming pools, theatres, museums, playparks...and this is the sort of space we hope the Sugar Sheds will become, a place where people feel they can go safely to enjoy themselves, and that also provides a direct benefit to our community, whether that is through jobs or the activity that happens there.<br />
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<a href="https://docs.google.com/viewer?a=v&pid=explorer&chrome=true&srcid=0BwmOzKDAkj8rYTQyOTljYmMtNDZkMy00YTBmLWFkMjEtZWE4NTI3YjQzNjJh&hl=en_GB">We sent some outline suggestions to Riverside Inverclyde a few weeks ago around the community opportunities available</a> (none of which would clash with the above development opportunity), and we are assured of a response soon.<br />
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So...still worth sticking in there for now on all fronts...<br />
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Sweet.Paul Bristowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06093165243350186267noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7100650439360581924.post-68507081390039693832011-10-16T13:38:00.000+01:002011-10-16T13:38:03.687+01:00Mr Cube's Roots<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://docs.google.com/viewer?a=v&pid=explorer&chrome=true&srcid=0BwmOzKDAkj8rNTExMzdiZTUtZjY2NS00N2YzLTg2YmQtOGVmMDQ0MDExZjZi&hl=en_GB"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijIIfZ1463c98OD4VUBxVHQmk9NHsoAvhK4pCNjVfpx6YDrYKEI1NTOlKLjj-hNixteWjbL2IL-caUz0Rs-KfLSc6Fg-tSeGPqMIh-MkSklkIc1SQE6cSYFJkeqMKSDFQa6UriTjthoCKg/s400/IMG_0002.jpg" width="272" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://docs.google.com/viewer?a=v&pid=explorer&chrome=true&srcid=0BwmOzKDAkj8rNTExMzdiZTUtZjY2NS00N2YzLTg2YmQtOGVmMDQ0MDExZjZi&hl=en_GB">"Mr Cube's Roots - The Story of Sugar"</a> was passed to us recently; it's a booklet produced in 1962 by Tate and Lyle. While the book is interesting from a time capsule perspective, the real story is that of Mr Cube himself.<br />
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Mr Cube was the personification of the British Sugar Industry, among his many other claims to fame, he headed Tate and Lyle's campaign to avert the nationalisation of the sugar industry in Britain. He first appeared in July 1949 in a period of post-war rationing and austerity. Friendly little chap isnt he? Kind of like a proto Sponge Bob. Except that his popular appeal almost helped lose Clement Atlee's government the 1950 election just after they had founded the National Health Service, the Welfare State and nationalised a whole range of other industries. Cheers Mr Cube.<br />
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The booklet <i>is</i> a wee bit vague on the trades links with <a href="http://www.scribd.com/doc/55041747/Slavery-Port-Glasgow-s-Forgotten-History">slavery</a>, Mr Cube apparently had nothing to do with that. But it does explain how sugar is <a href="http://youtu.be/Pib8eYDSFEI">crystallised</a> in great detail.<br />
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In other news, you may be aware of a new Artist in Residence Project being organised by Alec Galloway and delivered in the Sugar Sheds over the next few months. <a href="http://keepsugarsheds.blogspot.com/2011/07/guest-blogger-alec-galloway.html">Alec blogged about his vision for the project back in July</a> and has permission from Riverside Inverclyde to proceed We're all looking forward to seeing how it develops.<br />
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<a href="http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100003031933689&ref=ts">Check out the facebook page here</a>.<br />
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<br />KeepSugarShedshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03892799357477238649noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7100650439360581924.post-19568936067159646842011-10-06T13:13:00.000+01:002011-10-06T13:13:00.590+01:00National Poetry Day - Ballad In Blank Verse<br />
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To celebrate <a href="http://www.nationalpoetryday.co.uk/">National Poetry Day</a>, we are publishing poems <a href="http://www.blogger.com/profile/06093165243350186267">across all our blogs</a>.<br />
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John Davidson was a poet who spent much of his life in Greenock, working as a teacher at the <place w:st="on"><placename w:st="on">Highlanders</placename> <placetype w:st="on">Academy</placetype></place>, a school which he himself attended.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">This poem has recently been quoted and reprinted on the panels surrounding the statue of <a href="http://talesoftheoak.blogspot.com/2011/05/pirate-ships-and-drowning-horses.html">Ginger The Horse in Dalrymple Street</a>. </span></div>
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<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><a href="http://www.poemhunter.com/john-davidson/poems/">Davidson</a>, and later <a href="http://www.poetryfoundation.org/bio/w-s-graham">WS Graham</a> evoke a proud, working Greenock, when the Sugar Sheds and shipyards were not simply part of daily life, but an intergal part of the landscape...</span></div>
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from A Ballad in Blank Verse</div>
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All summer and all Autumn: this grey town</div>
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That pipes the morning up before the lark</div>
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With shrieking steam, and from a hundred stalks</div>
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Lacquers the sooty sky: where hammers clang</div>
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On Iron hulls, and cranes and harbours creak</div>
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Rattle and wing, whole cargoes on their necks;</div>
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Where men sweat gold that others hoard or spend,</div>
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This old grey town, this firth, the further strand</div>
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Spangled with hamlets, and wooded steeps,</div>
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Whose rocky tops behind each other press,</div>
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Fantastically carved like antique helms</div>
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High flung in heaven’s cloudy armoury,</div>
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Is world enough for me.</div>
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<br />Paul Bristowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06093165243350186267noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7100650439360581924.post-26206369551038688732011-10-04T10:00:00.000+01:002011-10-04T10:00:02.960+01:00Guest Blogger - Innes Carmichael<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
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<em>Innes Carmichael shares a recent cultural exchange experience with us, showing how another brick built warehouse has been converted for community use in a way that combines heritage, art and live music...</em><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Estonia's Traditional Music Center</span><br />
Recently, I visited <country-region w:st="on">Estonia</country-region> through a cultural exchange with <place w:st="on"><city w:st="on"><a href="http://www.archnetworks.eu/blog">ArchNetwork </city><country-region w:st="on">Scotland</country-region></place></a> funded through the <a href="http://www.leonardo.org.uk/">Leonardo</a> programme.</div>
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I was part of the exchange through my work as a trainer of textile techniques (spinning and natural dyes) and through my membership of Sgioba Luaidh Inbhircluaidh and the connection to Gaelic culture and song, our work at Auchindrain especially. (<a href="http://www.waulk.org/">read more about the work of Sgioba Luaidh Inbhircluaidh – Inverclyde Waulking Group – here</a>)</div>
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It was a fabulous experience and I learned a lot, saw amazing things-but the visit to the <a href="http://www.folk.ee/en">Estonian Traditional Music Center in Viljandi</a> just fit so well with the sugar sheds I thought it only right to let you all know about it. </div>
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What really impressed me was the echoes with the situation in <place w:st="on">Greenock</place>-and the speed, elegance and “can do” attitude with which the Estonians got this project off the drawing board and into reality- in 2 years! </div>
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There seems to be far less of the “100 reasons why we cannae dae this” attitude in <country-region w:st="on"><place w:st="on">Estonia</place></country-region>, we could really learn from that. They are a wee country of just one and a half million people and have been independent for 25 years after singing the Soviets out of their country. They make full use of European funding resources – a lot of funding through <a href="http://www.wdcweb.info/business-and-trade/european-funding/">LEADER</a> for instance, which usually focuses on rural funding. Best of all, they used almost exclusively Estonian architects, acoustic engineers and craftspeople. The old vodka warehouse is a listed building but they worked around this with elegant simplicity. <br />
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Here is an extract from <a href="http://www.archnetworks.eu/blog/_archives/2011/9/20/4903362.html">my report for Arch Network</a> on my return.</div>
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“Housed in an imaginatively restored former vodka storehouse the Centre has transformed what was a seedy part of town into a vibrant hub of music and performance art. Using mainly Estonian architects and technicians it serves as a beacon to other countries in the speed and efficiency of the restoration and the elegant simplicity of the design and function. </div>
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All the fittings and textiles are made by local blacksmiths, woodworkers and students from the Culture academy.</div>
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Our guide and Events Manager at the Centre, Silja Soo told us of the Famous Viljandi Folk Festival hosted by the Centre, an event in the last weekend of July that pulls around 20,000 visitors into Viljandi. We also visited the Library of International Folk Music in the basement and I left two cd’s of Scottish folk music to add to the collection.”</div>
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Here is an extract from the report a fellow exchange member did charting the development of the project.</div>
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“This 18th century storehouse belonging originally to a mansion had been used to store potatoes, wheat and vodka but was in a dilapidated state in the 1980s. </div>
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A four day music festival was started by Ando Kiviberg and some other students of the folk music course at the <place w:st="on"><placename w:st="on">Cultural</placename> <placetype w:st="on">Academy</placetype></place> in 1993. This grew to a major folk festival from 1995 onwards. They began to develop the idea of restoring the old storehouse to make a folk music centre. They gathered funding from various sources, including the EU and the local council with donations and a loan to finance a superb folk music centre with a small (80 seat) performing space and a large (400 seat) concert hall at a total cost of over 5M Euros. The building opened in 2008. The acoustics have been particularly well developed. Decoration of much of the dressing rooms etc has been done with traditionally inspired patterns by students of the <place w:st="on"><placename w:st="on">Cultural</placename> <placetype w:st="on">Academy</placetype></place>. </div>
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A library and archive of CDs and sheet music has been begun in the basement . We were all very impressed by this project, by the vision, and the way it has come to fruition.” <br />
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You can view more photos from the exchange <a href="http://skydrive.live.com/redir.aspx?cid=8994d104f2061692&page=browse&resid=8994D104F2061692!723&type=5&Bpub=SDX.Photos&Bsrc=Photomail">here</a> and <a href="https://skydrive.live.com/?cid=8994d104f2061692&Bsrc=Photomail&Bpub=SDX.Photos&id=8994D104F2061692%21739">here</a>.<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/JpSIeUjbJkA" width="420"></iframe>Paul Bristowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06093165243350186267noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7100650439360581924.post-23369963642316172202011-09-23T13:32:00.000+01:002011-09-23T13:32:34.701+01:00Future-proofing Yesterday<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUmTM3yTI76GtMYLxky5r-cLHW0Lk3DC0GIC-nMuCgVYVkL_3jYFOMTahIkO2QqK-0NFzcXeBOi25UV5FGMHr4KRz6pK3N1m6g_vy5V0VEOSkZZHGeB1vK-Ln_81PlMSU6SbqCcXv_ghdN/s1600/shed+b" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" hca="true" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUmTM3yTI76GtMYLxky5r-cLHW0Lk3DC0GIC-nMuCgVYVkL_3jYFOMTahIkO2QqK-0NFzcXeBOi25UV5FGMHr4KRz6pK3N1m6g_vy5V0VEOSkZZHGeB1vK-Ln_81PlMSU6SbqCcXv_ghdN/s400/shed+b" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shed B - used during Tall Ships for performances</td></tr>
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One word we have heard from everyone we have spoken to, is that any alternative plans for the Sugar Sheds need to be "sustainable". But what does that actually mean? Is that self sustaining? Environmentally sustainable? Sustainable through regular government subsidy? How do you measure that sustainability? In what way do you guarantee it? It is often a word we use indiscriminately without really thinking about what it means, more about what it implies. Certainly, <a href="http://www.triplepundit.com/2011/01/ad-age-names-sustainability-one-jargoniest-jargon-words-2010/">last year it won the award for "most jargoniest jargon"</a>.<br />
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Maybe like with any good relationship, sustainability isn't something that happens, it's something you work at. The sheds are naturally separated, lending themselves to phased development. So the first year or two of a Sugar Sheds project could be much more about the refurbishment of parts of the building, undertaken as a local employment and training programme, resourced through local and government employability contracts, and potentially Heritage Lottery or Historic Scotland. These gradually refurbished parts of the sheds are the areas which could then be leased back to the community (at nice knockdown rates of course), to unlock funding resources from lottery and elsewhere, and subsequently used to run community based projects, exhibitions and programmes, or provide occasional performance space for local bands. Performance and recording space as well as a regular programme of gigs could be the basis of income generating activity for a social enterprise linked to the community organisations leasing the space...<br />
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But that's just off the top of my head of course. Needs a bit of thinking through...is it sustainable enough? How do you do it? How do you turn the largest brick built shed in Europe into something that generates enough income to continue to resources the activities inside it? Can you do it at all?! Clearly if anyone genuinely knew the answer to that, we would have done it already. Therefore, we need to look elsewhere for our solutions. For us, a starting point this week was a very helpful chat with the <a href="http://www.scottishcivictrust.org.uk/">Scottish Civic Trust</a>, champions of Scotland's spaces and places. <br />
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The Civic Trust are running a conference on October 27th, <a href="http://www.scottishcivictrust.org.uk/media/104488/booking%20form.pdf">"Heritage + Development = ?"</a>. The conference will feature examples of successful regeneration and redevelopment projects; examine government policy from heritage to planning and placemaking; and highlight the importance of community and civic engagement. Sounds ideal eh? We've booked a few places. <a href="http://keepsugarsheds.blogspot.com/p/further-reading.html">We've also uploaded a few new documents to our resources page</a>. Arm yourself.<br />
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There is no easy solution, and there is no straightforward guarantee that anything is "sustainable", our plan, for now is to start small with a range of activities and events next year, and for now to listen and to learn from others who have faced similar challenges and succeeded. <br />
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We took these photos a couple of weeks ago, but <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/scottishscreenlocations/6152676234/">Scottish Screen have some much nicer new shiny ones on their Flickr account</a>. Wonder what they were down scouting for?<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrSRxByQXPPnHMB-nVYrcquVymMbo1sjsf_stFASzqKS39ufbdZoIiaEqswFuTbw6LV5O0DIv_Nu8yOdbrdugoh0evtfgwiDWgx604EpE8vWQPstAQas-gOzrTY7BFvgPfqO9BX-3aRLiA/s1600/shed+a" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" hca="true" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrSRxByQXPPnHMB-nVYrcquVymMbo1sjsf_stFASzqKS39ufbdZoIiaEqswFuTbw6LV5O0DIv_Nu8yOdbrdugoh0evtfgwiDWgx604EpE8vWQPstAQas-gOzrTY7BFvgPfqO9BX-3aRLiA/s400/shed+a" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shed A - used as a bar during Tall Ships and the space RI are <br />
happy to consider for short term community use</td></tr>
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One final thing, slightly off topic, but indulge us. We genuinely believe that more innovative and experimental development of Sheds can create jobs and opportunities for the area. However, the building is safe and reasonably wind and watertight, they are not in any immediate danger right now; the Clyde Coastguard service is...and that service saves lives. So if you are in Greenock tomorrow, get yourself along to the march. <br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000;">Public Protest March, Greenock, Sep 24th at 11am, Esplanade Cafe to Battery Park. Event</span> <a href="http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=211663238895724"><span style="color: #2288bb;">here</span></a>.</div>
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<br /><span style="color: #cc0000;">Banner Workshop at Fire Centre, Greenock 23rd 6-8pm. Event</span> <a href="http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=157608317660837"><span style="color: #2288bb;">here</span></a>.<br /><br /><a href="http://saveourcoastguard.blogspot.com/">You can read more details of this vital UK wide campaign on this blog</a>.</div>
KeepSugarShedshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03892799357477238649noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7100650439360581924.post-325508763155524302011-09-09T17:00:00.001+01:002011-09-09T17:00:00.734+01:00Sweet ChoonsJust a wee quick reminder to come see us tomorrow at Cathcart Square...have a chat with us about what you would like to see in the sheds, get a balloon, buy a book...go crazy.<br />
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To get you in the mood for the weekend, here's a wee sweet tooth playlist....<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="345" src="http://www.youtube.com/p/A4DC913D3A3383BA?version=3&hl=en_GB" width="560"></iframe>Paul Bristowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06093165243350186267noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7100650439360581924.post-87663223230632186642011-09-08T11:40:00.000+01:002011-09-08T11:40:48.886+01:00There Will be Balloons<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha2-Qj9PAY-yI2w80ruMxE0HhL4FdGSwMgfb7Plr-vo18hmMTpWYmurYX93oZuiBHT4BjvDicGrHLGeznctdqZUEuzrQOu3v_agJ1xHgOY-kSZdYrDXCYBaHeBppCxh-bptXonFnEFQPBr/s1600/DSC_0139.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" nba="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha2-Qj9PAY-yI2w80ruMxE0HhL4FdGSwMgfb7Plr-vo18hmMTpWYmurYX93oZuiBHT4BjvDicGrHLGeznctdqZUEuzrQOu3v_agJ1xHgOY-kSZdYrDXCYBaHeBppCxh-bptXonFnEFQPBr/s400/DSC_0139.jpg" width="225" /></a></div><br />
Members of the Sugar Sheds campaign group will be down at Cathcart Square in Greenock this weekend, with balloons, badges, books and bits of paper for you to sign. But more importantly, we would like to hear your views face to face about the sorts of things you would like to see happening <a href="http://keepsugarsheds.blogspot.com/2011/08/opportunity-knocks.html">if we attempt to fund an 18 month programme of events</a>.<br />
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We were hoping to unveil our lovely new campaign mascot this weekend...but that can wait for now. Meantime, just come see us and say hello.<br />
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In fact, why not make a day of it..its <a href="http://www.doorsopendays.org.uk/opendays/area_programmes.aspx?areaid=25">Doors Open Day in Inverclyde</a>, with lots of spaces open to the community, including the Custom House. <a href="http://identityinverclyde.blogspot.com/2011/09/doors-open-day-2011.html">Here's just two suggestions for you...</a>but there are over 30 venues open across Inverclyde.Paul Bristowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06093165243350186267noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7100650439360581924.post-78285697855144884422011-09-03T10:00:00.001+01:002011-09-03T10:00:06.697+01:00Guest Blogger - Joanie@8pr/8digital<div style="font: 10px "Times New Roman"; margin: 0px;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivzfJs0fFADD6RZTp322bd5ON53j6rcA12cKqzSpF9nRn2jQuRKlHVTsEha_8ZUq1U6ojcFnGQKgBt_TGTWhLphjUCasY-awPbtu8gChxLXkFQZQ2SFrtltlrSBIXJ4WbMTqqt-rFYtC_r/s1600/bbc.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivzfJs0fFADD6RZTp322bd5ON53j6rcA12cKqzSpF9nRn2jQuRKlHVTsEha_8ZUq1U6ojcFnGQKgBt_TGTWhLphjUCasY-awPbtu8gChxLXkFQZQ2SFrtltlrSBIXJ4WbMTqqt-rFYtC_r/s320/bbc.jpg" width="320" xaa="true" /></a></div><br />
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><em>As the BBC </em><a href="http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-glasgow-west-14629725"><em>shifts Waterloo Road to Scotland</em></a><em> and looks to invest further in the future, as we hear rumours of location scouts scuttling around Greenock checking out the views and as the new regional TV channels programme prompts </em><a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Inverclyde-TV/244528445577965?v=info"><em>a facebook page championing InverclydeTV</em></a><em>, Joanie from 8pr takes a look at the history of Greenock and The Sheds on screen...</em></span></span><br />
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><strong>ARE YOU READY FOR YOUR CLOSE-UP GREENOCK?</strong></span></span></div><div style="font: 10px "Times New Roman"; margin: 0px; min-height: 11px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"></span></span></div><div style="font: 10px "Times New Roman"; margin: 0px;"><br />
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">2011 and Brad Pitt is filming a Zombie movie (World War Z) in a Glasgow currently doubling as Philadelphia. The Disney/Pixar team have finished their fact finding visit from San Francisco to gather detail on the terrain for their up-coming animation ‘The Brave,’ set in Scotland and telling the story of a Scottish Princess. This puts Scotland front and centre in the movie world for 2012. It’s come a long way from Para Handy’s The Vital Spark filmed in and around The Marine Bar and their boat “The Maggie” moored at Victoria Dock.</span></span></div><div style="font: 10px "Times New Roman"; margin: 0px; min-height: 11px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"></span></span></div><div style="font: 10px "Times New Roman"; margin: 0px;"><br />
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">As a film location, Greenock has had it’s fair share of movie madness; the dock cranes in the background, like giant monolithic effigies to the bustling industrial feel of the town in the late 70’s and early 80’s. ‘Just a Boy’s Game’ burst onto our TV screens in 1979. It starred a gravel voiced Frankie Miller as Jake McQuillen, grandson of Greenock hardest man (Hector Nicol), who is losing his last fight for life. The movies and plays through the years meshed folklore with real life to create characters still remembered today. </span></span></div><div style="font: 10px "Times New Roman"; margin: 0px; min-height: 11px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"></span></span></div><div style="font: 10px "Times New Roman"; margin: 0px;"><br />
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">An everlasting movie scene in my head is the wee shipyard worker who thought he was a gunfighter, pretending to shoot his colleague against a backdrop of the spectacular Greenock Sugarsheds and blowing the imaginary smoke away from his fingers before holstering. Its just one of many scenes shot against the fine backdrop of Greenock’s industrial past. The movie ‘Down Where the Buffalo Go’ (1988) was written by Greenock’s own Peter McDougall and starred the Hollywood ‘Pulp Fiction’ star Harvey Keitel as a US Navy Shore Patrol Officer stationed at the Holy Loch. The Wild West of Scotland twinned with the Wild West of the US in gunslinger style is not an unusual likening. </span></span></div><div style="font: 10px "Times New Roman"; margin: 0px; min-height: 11px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"></span></span></div><div style="font: 10px "Times New Roman"; margin: 0px;"><br />
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Elephants Graveyard – another <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jx9s3ISrv40">Peter McDougall</a> masterpiece - stars Billy Connolly as Jody, out of work and wandering the hills behind Greenock where he meets Bunny, who is pretending to his wife he’s a postman and is wandering the same hills aimlessly. Jody’s happy-go-lucky philosophy against a backdrop of hopelessness runs through this Play for Today, and as always, in the background are the Sugarsheds and the all too familiar cranes.</span></span></div><div style="font: 10px "Times New Roman"; margin: 0px; min-height: 11px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"></span></span></div><div style="font: 10px "Times New Roman"; margin: 0px;"><br />
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Each movie and play shot through with negative and positive. Words like, gritty can be replaced by stoic; drama and struggle by real-life; with added touches of warmth and plenty of humour. </span></span><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Coming back into the present, I remember the screening of Sweet Sixteen in London. I caught sight of my mother’s house on the big screen in a scene involving the Battery Park. I leapt up and announced to amused cinemagoers “there’s my mum’s house!” before slinking back into my chair like a crazy lady in the back row. And let’s not forget the lovely, tender Dear Frankie with heartthrob Gerard Butler as the romantic lead. You are in no doubt that the prime location is Greenock, with some exterior and interior shots in Glasgow.</span></span></div><div style="font: 10px "Times New Roman"; margin: 0px; min-height: 11px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"></span></span></div><div style="font: 10px "Times New Roman"; margin: 0px;"><br />
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">No question that Inverclyde can offer a spectacular backdrop and that the Sugarsheds have played their part in movie history! Are we ready to expand on that movie heritage?</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">You can find Joanie on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/8digital/137680266277021">facebook</a> and <a href="http://www.twitter.com/8pr">twitter</a>, or <a href="http://8pr.blogspot.com/">follow her blog right here</a>.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">Folk have sent us a few links and clips featuring the docks and The Sheds. We'll put them all up on the blog next week, if you've any you would like to share, or if you fancy a bit of guest blogging, drop us a line <a href="mailto:keepgreenocksheds@gmail.com">keepgreenocksheds@gmail.com</a></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">Meantime...quite frankly any excuse for a wee clip of Elephants Graveyard...</span><br />
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</div><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="345" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/5-ooyvIyawU" width="420"></iframe>KeepSugarShedshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03892799357477238649noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7100650439360581924.post-29308338949934990772011-08-20T10:00:00.001+01:002011-08-20T10:00:00.881+01:00Culture Jacking Sugar Shed StyleJust for a laugh, a few of the posters our design guru was having fun with before he settled on our Uncle Sam / Irn Bru collection. I'm getting the Obama one made into a teeshirt...<br />
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Paul Bristowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06093165243350186267noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7100650439360581924.post-70666567706294879652011-08-16T16:14:00.001+01:002011-08-16T16:16:14.044+01:00Opportunity Knocks...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9FoZqYugfDdBO2FP6iycgWIiGwRisL6z6MXUmLiVWIl69QKrAB3LxXkdzEHQ_LnDjZGhj6z0Ioql86wFhzbmusziha9oK2132W6c-ekR8lcmU9zutAqPUWRi9ehxxwpUg73bqzTUqmLlE/s1600/CapnKidd_A4_450_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="282" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9FoZqYugfDdBO2FP6iycgWIiGwRisL6z6MXUmLiVWIl69QKrAB3LxXkdzEHQ_LnDjZGhj6z0Ioql86wFhzbmusziha9oK2132W6c-ekR8lcmU9zutAqPUWRi9ehxxwpUg73bqzTUqmLlE/s400/CapnKidd_A4_450_2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
Last week, as a direct result of the interest generated by the campaign and all your support, we got the opportunity to sit down and have a conversation with a our two local MSPs and senior staff at Riverside Inverclyde...though, not all at the same time. Those conversations were very positive for initial discussions, and really signal where we need to be going next...<br />
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First up, we met with George Hunter, Operations Manager from <a href="http://www.riversideinverclyde.com/">Riverside Inverclyde</a>. George is also on the board of the James Watt Dock LLP, he has been following the Sheds facebook page and blog. In principle, he was very clear that he sees no issue with <a href="http://keepsugarsheds.blogspot.com/2011/08/what-are-you-all-about.html">the aims and objectives which we have laid out</a>. He was keen that there be community activity and varied events at the sheds, and would most certainly consider temporary lets of some of the space to allow that to happen. Clearly though, the public liability / health and safety responsibilities for the use of the space would transfer to the leaseholder. Hmm. Tricky. Also, Shed B, (which is the one where all the gigs happened) still has issues with water ingress. The suggestion was initially that we look at Shed A for some events (this was the bar). We're going down there to have a look round shortly.<br />
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So...okay..RI happy for us to come back to them. What we're thinking is an 18 month programme of activities and events, specifically based around the ideas and suggestions put up on the page.<br />
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What about our local politicians? Well, so far we have met with <a href="http://www.stuart-mcmillan.net/">Stuart McMillan MSP</a> and <a href="http://www.blogger.com/post-edit.g?blogID=7100650439360581924&postID=7066656770629487965">Duncan McNeill MSP</a>, both of whom expressed a broad support for positive use of the sheds, provided there was some notion of sustainability. Stuart McMillan was interested to see that any activity down there, from refurbishment work to events directly created local jobs. Both will continue to discuss the situation with Riverside Inverclyde.<br />
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So, we're pushing at an open door, which is a good thing, but we don't just want to tumble through that door and land flat on our faces. I may have over-extended that metaphor there. You get the idea.<br />
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Anything that we want to put in the sheds needs to be well organised and varied to appeal to Inverclyders and other audiences, that's what will prove the case. In order to do that effectively, we'll need a more formal structure for the group, to fundraise both through grant opportunities, crowdsourcing and more traditional methods, and we'll also need to get all of you who have kindly offered to help, from promoters and community groups through to artists and stage crew to pitch in pulling this together. Having looked at some of the health and safety implications etc and with summer almost gone...we're now thinking events for next year are more likely.<br />
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While we're planning all that, we'll still be looking more formally at an alternative business plan for the building. More on that to follow.<br />
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So...victory! Sort of. Maybe. Thank you all for helping get us to this point. Now's when the hard work starts if we are serious about using the sheds as a community space in the future. If you haven't already offered your skills and support to us, and think you can help, contact us on keepsugarsheds@gmail.com. Likewise, keep signing and sharing (and if you still want to be part of our <a href="http://keepsugarsheds.blogspot.com/p/celebration-ode.html">Celebration Ode collection</a>, singing)<br />
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We're intending to have a stall at one of the<a href="http://www.inverclydenow.com/index.php/news/local/5223-weekend-attractions-lined-up-for-traffic-free-cathcart-square"> Cathcart Square events over the next few weekends</a>, if you see us, come say hello and help support another local event attempting to use a historical space creatively.<br />
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Sweet.KeepSugarShedshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03892799357477238649noreply@blogger.com1