Dove Street Action Group 2001 Video Documentary
(10 minute duration)

The Dove Street Action Group commisioned a short video documentary which involved interviews with local people over two days at the Cube Cinema in King's Square, Bristol. The idea was to consult with, and involve local people in realising their creative ideas in order to address some of the social problems of the Dove Street Estate, Kingsdown, Bristol.
By forming an Action Group they become an autonomous partner with other agencies involved in the servicing, maintenance and regeneration the Dove Street Area such as Bristol City Council.

These video interviews with local residents were compiled together with more footage taken during the Dove Street Festival organised by the Action Group. With the aim of giving voice to some of the thoughts they have had about the ills of the estate, and what they felt needed to be done to counter them.
It documents their inclusive approach, and their aim that the video act as a tool for raising further funds for the Action Group's projects.

Featuring video consultations with residents, and footage of a Street Party organised to celebrate "who we are and where we live", this video gives some idea of the diversity, creativity and strengths of the Dove Street community.

(below are some excerpts from the video document produced in October, 2001)

"It's really good that people are
getting together like this to make changes..."

"Social events and trips have always been popular.
And something for the young people and children...."

"Fremantle Square is still one of the loveliest in Bristol!"
"It is quite nice to be able to see such views in the middle of a city!"

"Dancing classes with tall men, that's what I'd like!!"
"...we need more play equipment;

a skateboard park, a swimming pool, a playground maybe on the roof -
with swings, they took the swings away!"

"..a local action group can do that; bring in more money from other sources than just housing...
there are lots of funds available to local residents groups."

"People don't want to see people urinating in their own trousers....
they want to see herb gardens!"

"There's not enough for the kids round here...
there should be more for them on such a big site."

"I know a little girl who picked up a drug needle once
and she had to be rushed to hospital.
We saw 3 men doing their drugs, it's scary
when you look at them and they chase you and threaten to kill you!!"

"I want to see planting and lighting, landscaping and seating.

There could be opportunties for the kids on and off the site -likewise for adults and elders...."

"People have got to realise they're nice places; they're sought after, good places to live."

"The roofs are an interesting resource, what about a roof garden?"
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