The ICON team spent the day in Lincoln this summer, as part of its commitment to hearing from neighbourhoods across the country. The group was led by Baroness Hilary Armstrong, and joined by Commissioner Matt Leach.
The group met with residents and local stakeholders, where they were greeted by Member of Parliament Hamish Falconer for a tour of the Birchwood Estate.
Birchwood, which is Mission Critical according to ICON’s research, has been announced as a Trailblazer Neighbourhood and will be receiving £20million of government funding to improve outcomes in the area.
Local police spoke to the group about how community engagement can be used as a tool to reduce crime and increase social trust. The group toured the local park and community centres to find out how past investments have led to improved outcomes and positive perceptions in the area.
The afternoon was spent with Lincoln City Council where a cross-party group of councilors, local representatives and stakeholders took part in a discussion led by Hamish Falconer MP. The group discussed how the Trailblazers fund might be used to benefit the Birchwood community, drawing from place-based initiatives around the country and resident experiences of the area.
The trip to Lincoln was insightful and will inform ICON’s upcoming final report. We are grateful to everyone who contributed to the visit.
