High Street Grants, update and impact

Posted bygemmakwaPosted inUncategorized

In spring 2025, Knowle West Alliance offered High Street Grants, funded by RCKa Architects, working with Bristol City Council, as part of their social value investment as part of the Transforming Filwood Broadway project. RCKa Architects were appointed by Bristol City Council to bring forward a planning application to re-build housing and shops at 4-16 Filwood Broadway.

RCKa Architects funded High Street Grants to increase community activity and footfall on the high streets within the Knowle West Regeneration Framework area.

Neon Knowle

One of the successful projects was: Neon Knowle, a project to bring light, joy, and creativity to the high streets of Knowle West by co-designing and installing unique, community-created illuminated artworks in shop windows over winter. Through a series of creative workshops, local residents, businesses, and community members came together to design and make vibrant displays that reflect the spirit and identity of Knowle West. A glowing celebration of local pride, increasing visibility and activity in these public spaces. Encouraging local residents to visit Filwood Broadway. Neon Knowle was created and facilitated by Lights Lights Light, Joy Ride Project

The lights are on display in the windows of Wild West Tattoo studio on Filwood Broadway until mid-March 2026.

TY from Wild West Tattoo studio: “They look great! It’s nice to have some lights on the Broadway isn’t it! I hope the kids are proud to see their lights on display.”

Who benefited?

  • At least 40 + participants directly engaged in the co-design process, including local residents, shop owners, and community groups.
  • The final illuminated displays are visible to hundreds of passersby, encouraging increased visits to Knowle West’s high streets.
  • Local businesses benefit from the additional foot traffic and increased visibility of their shopfronts and a boost in business.
  • Increased community engagement, with more people participating in public art and placemaking activities.
  • A more welcoming and vibrant atmosphere on Knowle West’s high streets during the winter months.
  • A strengthened sense of place, identity, and joy within the community.

Knowle West Alliance Small Grants programme is open. Apply by 13th April. Full information here.