Neighbourhood participation: a positive balance
The drOp project has been a key initiative to strengthen neighbourhood participation and foster collaboration within the community. In this context, a total of 92 participating neighbours have been identified, with an equal distribution of 50% between men and women. Among them, 13% have participated in more than three activities, while about 10% have taken part in more than five.
Considering that the neighbourhood has 637 residents, the 92 participants represent approximately 14.4% of the total community. This percentage indicates that we are approaching the target of 20% of neighbours involved in the project, which reflects significant progress in promoting active participation and community engagement.
Among the activities organised, a total of 20 participatory actions were carried out with neighbours, designed to foster collaboration and strengthen the community. These initiatives covered a range of areas, from social activities to neighbourhood improvement projects, reflecting residents’ commitment to community development. One of these highlights was the inauguration of the Neighbourhood Office, consolidating itself as a key space for communication and support to the community, registering a total of 47 consultations. Of these, 38% were related to information on the drOp project, 30% focused on reporting incidents in the neighbourhood, 21% to receive information on rehabilitation grants and 11% to receive advice on electricity bills. In addition to resolving queries, the Neighbourhood Office has served as a space to foster community connections, organising activities that promote collaboration and dialogue between neighbours.
Future actions: towards and energetic community and a renewed neighbour
The project continues to move forward with new initiatives that seek to further involve neighbours. One of the priorities is the creation of an energy community, which will involve residents as well as the local school and local businesses. This project not only aims to improve energy efficiency, but also to empower residents to manage sustainable resources.
Another major initiative is the renovation of a neighbourhood square, currently difficult to access and unattractive to residents. To ensure that the redevelopment reflects the needs and wishes of the community, neighbours have been asked to vote on design options proposed by different architectural firms. This participatory approach will also be applied to the renovation of a mural, where residents will be able to choose between several designs that best represent the identity of the neighbourhood.
In March, a course on energy efficient construction will be launched. This programme not only offers specialised training but also includes a contract to apply the skills learned in a public building of Ermua Town Council. This initiative aims to train residents in key areas of sustainability, while offering them job opportunities.
The neighbourhood has become an example of how citizen participation can drive significant change. With active neighbours and a Neighbourhood Office that resolves queries and fosters community connection, the project is moving towards the creation of an energetic community and the renovation of public spaces. The inclusion of neighbours in decision-making, through voting and specialised training, reinforces a sense of ownership and ensures that initiatives respond to the real needs of the community.
