Somer Community in Action (SCAN)

SCAN projects seek to transform an area by delivering improvements that make a real difference to people’s lives.

This can only be achieved if residents are fully involved in the whole SCAN process – helping to establish priorities, identifying solutions or responding to suggestions and taking on responsibility for sustaining and building on what has been done. It is also about much more than physical changes, as through positive community involvement, a wide range of engagement and social activities take place that promote community cohesion and a sense of shared neighbourhood identity.

SCAN projects are prioritised using management data on how an area is performing in terms of empty properties, requests for transfers, rent arrears, repairs costs, vandalism, crime and overall appearance. Residents and staff are also consulted in the process to ensure resources are targeted where they are most needed.

SCAN projects in 2006/07
Project What happened? The difference it made
Snow Hill, Bath

Supporting community interest group and other agencies to deliver services from Centre Track.

Low-cost alternative therapies continue to be available to residents locally.
Parent support group running weekly.
Welfare benefits advice available weekly.

  Consultation has been carried out with residents on proposals for more external bin stores. Following consultation, three new bin stores have been agreed. Work to take place during 2007/08.
Foxhill, Bath Foxhill Point Community Group advocated for improved street lighting. A joint project between the Trust and B&NES renewed and enhanced lighting around the Quantocks. Improved safety and security.
Walnut Buildings, Radstock The final phase of this project saw the demolition of a row of unpopular garages, resurfacing of a parking area, an improved bin store and recycling area, and additional lighting. The improvements have made a big impact in terms of the overall appearance of the area and also in residents’ perception of safety. Residents are using the new facilities and disposing of rubbish responsibly.
Tintagel Close, Keynsham

Residents formed a key part of the project team and helped to lead the project.

 

  Other residents helped in the details of the courtyard design.  
  Full courtyard ‘makeover’ is complete. Improved physical environment and the creation of an attractive area in which to meet and play.
  New metal entrance gates and security fencing. Security works mean that people feel safer.
Conygre Green, Timsbury

Consultation with residents.

Residents have helped to address some ongoing problems.

  Improvements to the rear garden area. Residents selected from a range of options for their own garden. Tidy rear gardens that can now be enjoyed.
  Security lighting and fencing. Only residents can access the rear of the flats.
  New planted beds at the front of the flats. The overall environment is more attractive.
Springfield Crest, Radstock Consultation with residents.
Residents shaped the priorities and details.
  Clearance of rear garden areas and the creation of three shared gardens.
Rear area is now tidy and can be enjoyed. Opportunities for further planting works in consultation with residents.
  Remodelling of the front of the flats.
The flats are now more attractive, but also safer with new railings installed.
  New bin stores. Residents are using the facilities responsibly and a group carried out a tidy-up session before the new stores were opened.
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