CABE launches 2009 design skills programme

Michael Donnelly, PlanningResource, 30 October 2008

The scheme offers up to six people who work in the public realm the opportunity to travel abroad to learn from fellow professionals how a well-designed space can benefit the community it serves.

The scholarships target people without design training whose work has an impact on the public realm and who want to learn more about the effect good design can have on our streets and highways, parks and green spaces and public squares and neighbourhoods.

Successful scholars will travel to places all over the world and within the UK to visit examples of well-designed spaces, gain an understanding of their delivery and management, and learn how similar ideas can be developed through their work.

Sarah Gaventa, director of CABE Space, said: "The scholarship programme aims to address a key problem in our towns and cities – the lack of good design within the public realm.

"This is an amazing opportunity and I would urge anyone working to shape our public spaces to be inspired and apply. This is their chance to really make a difference to the quality of our public spaces both by informing their own work and motivating and leading others."

Applications are invited in six areas: urban streets; highways and public squares; urban parks and green spaces; public space design for disabled people and those with other access issues; public space projects delivered by or working with local communities, and public spaces in social housing developments.

Applications can be made online by visiting www.cabe.org.uk/scholarships.

michael.donnelly@haymarket.com