Cultural place-shaping

This short documentary film explores the transformation of a derelict piece of public land in Wandsworth, London, into a valued community greenspace through the efforts of local residents. 

In the mid-1970s, Eloise’s parents, Eileen and Brian, were among the first residents of Carey Gardens Estate. With no garden space of their own, they recognised the potential of a neglected area across from the estate. Together with neighbours, they took direct action, laying turf, planting trees, and installing play equipment, to create a usable green space for local families. 

Brian, an artist, also contributed creatively by painting murals around the area, including a prominent piece on the wall of the green space. These works aimed to make art accessible and relevant to the community, celebrating local life and identity. Although the park was later closed and returned to council control, it has recently reopened with support from Wandsworth Council. As part of the relaunch, a new mural was commissioned from artist Pins, who involved local children in the creative process, echoing the community-led spirit of the original project. 

This film was created by Wandsworth-based film-makers Chocolate Films, and is part of 1000 Londoners, a ten-year digital project which aims to create a digital portrait of a city through 1000 of the people who identify themselves with it.