Our Projects | Community-Led Improvements in Hartcliffe & Withywood
Planting Project – October 2022
In October 2022, Spacemakers Bristol worked alongside students and staff from Merchants Academy and Hareclive E-Act Academy to deliver a large-scale planting project within the Spacemakers area of Wilmott Park.
Young people helped design and plant greenery to improve the look, feel, and biodiversity of the space, while also learning about environmental responsibility and teamwork. The project strengthened links between local schools and the wider Hartcliffe community.
Project Power
People Power explored why community-led spaces like Spacemakers matter, and how local people play a vital role in shaping, protecting, and sustaining public spaces in Hartcliffe.
Lego Legends: Big Build at Spacemakers – August 2023
The Lego Legends Big Build brought children and families together for a creative community event at Spacemakers, using play and imagination to activate the space and encourage social connection.
Herb Garden — “Growing Hope” with Merchants Academy — March 2024
The Herb Garden Project was developed to introduce planting, learning, and wellbeing activities into the Spacemakers area of Wilmott Park. Delivered in partnership with Merchants Academy Primary School, the project created a practical, hands-on growing space for young people and the wider community.
Students, staff, and volunteers worked together to design and plant a herb garden that could be used for outdoor learning, sensory engagement, and community enjoyment. The project encouraged participants to develop new skills, understand where food comes from, and take pride in caring for a shared space.
Beyond the physical garden, the project strengthened links between the school and the local community, reinforcing Spacemakers’ role as a place for education, collaboration, and positive outdoor activity in Hartcliffe.
Spacemakers Stream Project — Completed December 2024
The Spacemakers Stream Project focused on restoring and improving the stream and surrounding environment within the Spacemakers area of Wilmott Park, Hartcliffe. The aim was to make the space safer, more accessible, and more enjoyable for local residents while respecting the natural features of the site.
Working with community members and partners, the project addressed long-standing issues including erosion, poor access, and underused areas around the stream. Improvements were designed to enhance the look and function of the space, while encouraging people to spend time there and feel a sense of ownership.
The project also supported environmental awareness by highlighting the importance of natural water features within public parks. The resulting improvements have helped transform the stream area into a valued part of the park, contributing to the overall regeneration of Spacemakers as a community-led space.
Installation of New Park Equipment – Swing Set – December 2024
In December 2024, a new swing set was installed in the Spacemakers area of Wilmott Park as part of ongoing efforts to improve play opportunities for local children and families.
The installation responded directly to community feedback and formed part of a wider programme of practical improvements aimed at making the space safer, more inclusive, and more enjoyable for people of all ages.
Bristol Community Festival – March 2025
Spacemakers Bristol took part in the Bristol Community Festival to celebrate local creativity, connect with residents, and build momentum for future community-led projects in Hartcliffe.
Design and Implementation of Spacemakers Graffiti Artwork – June 2025
Following conversations and connections made during the Bristol Community Festival, Spacemakers worked with artists and community members to design and install new graffiti artwork in June 2025.
The artwork reflects local identity, creativity, and pride, transforming the space with colour while helping deter unwanted graffiti. The project reinforced the idea that community-designed art can play a key role in creating safer, more welcoming public spaces.
Shelter Flooring, Edging and Tarmacing Improvements – August 2025
In August 2025, Spacemakers completed essential improvement works to the shelter area, including reworking the edging and tarmacing of the flooring and stairs leading to the shelter.
The project was delivered using remaining Quartet Community Foundation funding originally secured for the stream and swing projects. These improvements enhanced safety, accessibility, and durability of the space, ensuring it remains usable for years to come.
Many of our projects are shaped directly by local residents, schools, and community partners. If you’d like to get involved or suggest a project, please get in touch.