Resources for community groups to help make change happen at the local level
At the TCPA, we think the Garden City Principles are a useful way to think about the mixture of ingredients needed to create healthy, thriving places. They touch upon everything from equitable local economies, vibrant and inclusive social and cultural spaces, to the restoration of nature and the sustainability of our planet.
But, to make a difference to people’s lives, we need to make these ideas a reality. That’s why we’ve developed Practical Hope: inspiration for community action – a collection of guides and case studies spotlighting inspiring community-led projects. All of the Practical Hope resources can be found at the bottom of this page.
Practical Hope community guides
We have produced a suite of community planning guides on three of the most pressing issues facing communities in relation to climate change: flood risk, overheating and retrofit. By exploring a range of case studies from around the country, we highlight how local communities are putting sustainable planning principles into practice and making real change happen on the ground.
Practical Hope case studies
In 2024, we published the first six Practical Hope case studies, spotlighting inspiring community projects such as local food-growing initiatives and community land trusts. The case studies include practical advice and useful tips to help ensure that your community project is a success. In 2025, we grew the case study library, with six more snapshots of projects that are promoting local democracy, sustainability, and a fair economy. This blog explores the ingredients for success.
Resources
Webinar: Practical Hope Community Guides
This recording is from the launch webinar for the TCPA’s suite of Community Planning Guides on climate action at the local level.
Community guide to retrofit
What communities in England can do to share best practice, develop area-based projects, and use more sustainable energy.
Community guide to overheating
What communities in England can do to address the urban heat island effect, prevent overheating and make homes cooler.
Community guide to flood risk
What communities in England can do to influence planning, respond to floods and manage flood risk naturally.
Bradford on Avon Town Council
Bradford On Avon Town Council's aim is to ‘support and nurture the town, valuing community and leading by example’.
Kitty’s Launderette
The work of Kitty’s Launderette in Liverpool extends far beyond its vital laundry services, as it provides an inclusive and welcoming space for local residents to come together, socialise, and be creative.
Llyn Parc Mawr Community Woodland Group
Llyn Parc Mawr Community Woodland Group in Anglesey is creating a thriving woodland for the benefit of wildlife and the local community's wellbeing.
Midsteeple Quarter
Midsteeple Quarter is a community benefit society helping to bring life back into Dumfries town centre by revitalising disused buildings and making them work for the benefit of the community.
Sunnyside Community Gardens
Sunnyside Community Gardens is nurturing an inclusive green space for the local community in north London.
Practical Hope: Woodgate Community Shop
Woodgate Community Shop is more than just a business. It has played a pivotal role in facilitating community cohesion between new and existing community members in Woodgate, West Sussex.
Practical Hope: inspiration for community action
This pamphlet includes case studies from communities already working on amazing projects embracing the TCPA's Garden City Principles in a variety of contexts.
