The POoR Collective has successfully revitalized a concrete sports pitch in Mitcham through a colorful transformation project funded by Clarion Futures, the charitable foundation of Clarion Housing Group. The initiative formed part of a broader Community Ambassador Programme aimed at enhancing community spaces and fostering local engagement.
The community sports facility is situated on the Sadler Close estate in Mitcham, a 1970s red brick post-industrial housing development where two of POoR Collective's founders spent their childhood. The project focused on revitalizing the outdoor multi-use games area (MUGA) and was carried out in close collaboration with young residents from the estate to ensure the final design truly reflected the community's needs and preferences.
The collaborative approach began with extensive door-to-door outreach efforts to engage local residents. Community members were invited to participate through a comprehensive series of workshops that included photography sessions, guided walks around Mitcham, and co-design sessions held at the Shine Youth Group in Mitcham Library as well as on-site at the sports facility. This inclusive process ensured that local voices were heard and incorporated into the planning stages.
The project successfully engaged twelve young residents and five parents, caregivers, and family members in the transformation process. Additionally, two Clarion apprentices provided support for the site's transformation and actively participated in painting the MUGA. The outreach phase reached more than 30 young people and parents, demonstrating the community's enthusiasm for the project.
The final design features a striking color scheme of blue, orange, and yellow, creating a vibrant and welcoming space for community activities. This colorful transformation has turned what was once a neglected concrete area into an attractive hub for recreation and community gatherings.
POoR Collective has a track record of successful community-focused projects. Last year, the organization partnered with GPAD to complete a comprehensive overhaul of the deteriorated Copthall Pavilion in Barnet, north London. In 2023, they served as guest editors for an issue of the Architects' Journal titled "Power Out of Restriction," which featured articles highlighting co-design principles, examining youth-focused buildings, and spotlighting mentoring organizations.
Larry Botchway, co-founder of POoR Collective and currently an associate for Public Practice at Richmond and Wandsworth councils, expressed his enthusiasm about the MUGA co-design process. "Working with this sharp, energetic group of young people has been a joy," Botchway said. "Sadler Close MUGA proves that, with the right tools and trust, young people can transform a neglected space in Mitcham into a bold and vibrant hub for play, creativity and community pride."
