The Shared
Stretford
As the stage to the year project, Stretford is explored through its 'shared' quality; the public realm, community space or what is assumed to be accessible by anyone, in contrast to the private residential area.
Click below for more analysis of Stretford.
Stretford in located inside the territory of Trafford, Greater Manchester. England, UK.
Privately owned building that has been closed to the public for more than 20 years.
Subway as a relatively safe alternative to crossing the highway, although they are not well-kept.
"We are not simply observers of this spectacle, but are ourselves a part of it, on the stage with the other participants." (Lynch, 1960:2)
Stretford Public Mall becomes the automatic focal point of Stretford due to its location while Stretford Public Hall is yet to be fully utilised as a community centre.
Recently bought by Friends of Stretford Public Hall, currently a co-working space for artists, architects and acupuncturist.
"Plans have not been carried through because it seems that the council prioritised funding for other areas. "
To state an opinion is unavoidably an exercise of comparison. For example, an 'uncelebrated' Stretford is compared to its'celebrated' neighbours with various reasons. Standards too depend on the background of individuals. While many complain, others state their affection toward Stretford. Both groups are regardless concerned/care for Stretford.
"Stretford is friendly, safe. Nice community."
Q: Would you say that you are contented?
"Yes, yes I am."
"Lacks restaurants and cafe, shops."
What's Missing in Stretford, we asked.
A pop-out shop was opened at Stretford Mall for two days in October, enabling Karakter to interact with curious shoppers, artistic children and their guardians.
Nice restaurants and variety of shops are the most frequently identified to be missing in Stretford. Following are concerns for children and community within its environment, and the absence of entertainment after the mall closes.
Notable mentions: Stretford Public Hall and Essoldo Theatre are felt to be publicly owned by the community, hence the urge for their invitations of use by the residents.
What do you feel of Stretford?
Areas recognized as shared; naturally attached to/ attaching different modes of transportation (cars, buses, lorries, bicycles, tram, canal boats). Eventually, a triangular node is formed upon those intersections.
Landmarks
Conversations
Location
Node
Opinions collected from temporary/permanent occupants of Stretford