MEANWHILE USE STRATEGY & ACTIVATION
Building communities
At Solid Ground, we specialise in delivering bespoke Meanwhile Use strategies that activate places in transition. Whether it’s a phased regeneration scheme, a long-term masterplan or underused retail space, we help developers and local authorities unlock the value of vacant sites and buildings through curated activity that builds awareness, supports local business and brings people together.
We work across the UK to develop creative, commercially-aware strategies that turn empty spaces into thriving places – supporting social value, footfall, and long-term engagement.
What is Meanwhile Use?
Meanwhile Use refers to the temporary activation of vacant buildings, land or public realm ahead of long-term development. It’s a powerful placemaking tool that keeps neighbourhoods animated and welcoming while building interest in what’s to come.
We create strategies that include:
■ Short-term installations and events
■ Pop-up food and drink offers
■ Street art and creative interventions
■ Cultural programming
■ Community workshops
■ Temporary structures
■ Market and festival-style events
Our Approach
Every project is unique. That’s why we tailor our Meanwhile Use strategies to the location, the timeline, and the people who will ultimately live, work, or visit the space. Our strategies are:
Flexible & scalable
From one-day events to multi-year frameworks, we over a consultancy service that explores all elements of your project
Community-first
Engaging local groups, schools and colleges, charities, faith and cultural partners
Data-driven
Using audience insights and local context to shape activity
Deliverable
We manage everything from licensing and logistics to design and marketing
Services Include:
■ Strategic Planning
■ Licensing & Operational Planning
■ Activation Programming & Event Delivery
■ Marketing, PR & Social Media
■ Stakeholder Engagement
■ Temporary Structures & Fit-out
■ Sponsorship & Commercialisation
■ Evaluation & Legacy Planning
Our Track Record
We’ve delivered Meanwhile Use strategies and programming for major regeneration schemes across the UK, including:
New Bailey, Salford
In partnership with Muse, Salford City Council, and ECF
We’ve supported New Bailey for nearly a decade — delivering Meanwhile Use activations including pop-ups, commercial events, wellness programmes, and long-term placemaking strategies that support both residents and occupiers.
MeadowSide, Manchester
For Far East Consortium
We devised the place activation strategy for this landmark city centre development and created “Found”, a platform for Meanwhile Use and community activation across the wider Victoria North masterplan.
Mell Square, Solihull
Consultants to Muse (Midlands)
We developed a 3-year Meanwhile Use strategy to support the regeneration of the town initially delivered public consultation through a creative activation: “I Wish This Was”. Delivery is set to recommence in late 2025.
Smithgate, Wolverhampton
Consultants to Muse (Midlands)
We devised a Meanwhile Use strategy focused on Old Market Square, supporting the transformation of the west side of Wolverhampton. Phase one of the strategy is set to be delivered in Q4 2025.
Crescent, Salford
Consultants to Muse (Northwest)
Working with the Crescent placemaking steering group (University of Salford, Salford City Council and ECF), we developed a Meanwhile Use framework focused on Albert Bentley Place, The Rise, and the Innovation Zone, blending culture, creativity and community.
Why It Works
■ Engages with the community from day 1
■ Supports local economies
■ Tests ideas and builds demand
■ Reduces vacancy perception
■ Builds positive awareness of future development
■ Drives footfall and dwell time
■ Leaves a legacy of engagement
