OPEN CALL: Super Small Ways

1st November 2022

We’re now looking for proposals for four unique creative residencies to work with community groups along the canal in Blackburn and Burnley

The Super Slow Way Linear Park is an ambitious, pioneering, and deliverable vision and programme of change that seeks to explore and demonstrate how the Leeds & Liverpool Canal corridor can be developed as a major asset for the communities that live in this part of East Lancashire.

Over the last eight months we’ve piloted a series of projects and activities to give residents living along the canal the opportunity to get involved, try something new and think about how the canal, and the many unused spaces alongside it, could become a great space for us all to use and share.

As part of this activity we are developing community hubs along the canal stretch from Blackburn to Pendle in collaboration with local organisations and community groups where paddle sports, walking, cycling, growing, planting and creative activity can take place. 

We’re now looking for proposals for four unique creative residencies to work with community groups along the canal in Blackburn and Burnley, based around two of the four hubs. These residencies should build on some of the work that has already taken place, and continue to explore how we can build a safer, greener, more productive, active environment, and nurture a unique sense of place whilst using the Leeds & Liverpool Canal as a vehicle for bringing people together on a waterway that everyone shares.

We’re keen for ideas to be co-produced with the groups identified so are seeking proposals that could be developed collaboratively, encouraging individuals to engage with the canal environment, animate the space and create a long term legacy.

The priority groups and locations we’re hoping to work in and with are:

– Canalside Activity Centre & the residents of Mill Hill, Blackburn

– Nightsafe, Blackburn

– Pennine Lancashire Community Farm & young people from Stoneyholme, Burnley

– The Alternative School pupils at Finsley Gate Wharf, Burnley

The deadline for submissions is Monday 14th November 5pm, we will then work alongside the groups in each area to select a shortlist for an informal interview. If you’d like to find out more or chat about your idea, please contact ben@superslowway.org.uk

Please outline your idea within two sides of A4, and include examples of previous work, budget & timeline, including day rate & additional costs. The maximum budget is £1500 per group/location.

We expect projects to be delivered by the 1st March 2023.