On the 11th April the previously empty warehouse in Bowl Court was opened as an ‘autonomous social centre’. It is described as a participatory project moving towards bringing about radical social change and creating positive alternatives while seeking to address issues of ecological sustainability in temporary urban spaces. Projects in the self organised community space include a giveaway store, film festivals, art exhibitions, benefit concerts, permaculture, political discussions, public meetings, cafe and free school.
The project is already under threat of eviction despite the fact that the owners, Hammerson, have no (public) plans for the building. Eventually they will no doubt manage to obtain planning consent to knock it down, despite it being in a conservation area.
The occupiers have attempted to enter into negotiation with Hammerson but reserved no reply apart from notice of court proceedings for repossession on the 4th June. Hammerson obviously feel it’s not in their interest to allow people to care for the building which previously had gaping holes smashed through the roof and many of its windows torn from their frames. They’d prefer the building to fall into disrepair to help justify it’s eventual demolition.
The social centre has an open meeting every monday evening from 7pm to discuss use of the space and hear proposals. Email bowlcourt(@)riseup.net or phone 0208 8192596
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