At Mark Fairhurst Architects, we believe that successful places are shaped not only by great design, but also by meaningful community involvement. Our work in community architecture empowers local groups to influence planning policy, participate in regeneration, and help shape the future of their neighbourhoods.
We have been actively involved in neighbourhood planning since its introduction under the Localism Act 2011, supporting community-led design and development strategies. Through our involvement with Neighbourhood Planners London and direct support of local forums and amenity groups, we help communities create Neighbourhood Plans, respond to site allocations, and engage constructively with local authorities. Our approach is collaborative and inclusive, ensuring that all voices are heard and embedded in the planning process.
MFA has provided ongoing support to the Norwood Planning Assembly, with Mark Fairhurst serving as a Task Group Convener for the Norwood Green Town Plan. This role has included contributions to local site appraisals, design-led visioning, and formal responses to Lambeth Council’s emerging planning policy. We were invited to contribute to the ‘Power of Norwood High Street’ initiative as part of the London Festival of Architecture, sharing our regeneration proposals for Knight’s Hill Square – a project that showcases how creative reuse of industrial and heritage buildings can foster cultural and economic renewal.
Community Architecture: Our Approach
Our community-centred approach is visible in our work on the redevelopment of Knight’s Hill Square and adjacent industrial sites in West Norwood. These proposals aim to revitalise Lambeth’s largest Key Industrial Business Area (KIBA), combining affordable workspace, public realm improvements, community facilities, and mixed-tenure housing. Drawing on successful precedents such as Deptford Market Yard and the Wickside Development, we advocate for layered, sustainable regeneration strategies that serve both residents and businesses.
In 2023–24, MFA supported local amenity groups in responding to Lambeth Council’s revised Site Allocation Development Plan. We participated in public consultations, prepared detailed policy critiques, and attended hearings before the Planning Inspector, advocating for a more sustainable, heritage-sensitive approach to urban renewal. Our critique of Site 18 in West Norwood underscored the importance of protecting existing businesses, preserving historic character, and ensuring viability through adaptive reuse rather than wholesale redevelopment.
Community architecture is at the heart of what we do. We bring together residents, local authorities, businesses, and design professionals to co-create neighbourhoods that are inclusive, resilient, and rooted in local identity.
Links:
https://www.mark-fairhurst.co.uk/london-festival-of-architecture-pecha-kucha/
https://www.mark-fairhurst.co.uk/neighbourhood-planning/
https://www.mark-fairhurst.co.uk/knights-hill-square-regeneration-west-norwood/
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