First Site

Young people on the Tibbington estate in Tipton are putting their game playing skills to good use by using computer games technology to show how they’d like to see a local open space developed in the future.

Anyone who lives locally and fancies having a go - and having some fun - should contact Sheila on 0121 557 6425.

They are able to enter a “virtual environment”, which replicates the open space created by the recent demolition of homes between Laurel Road and Laburnum Road. They can then use a huge range of virtual building tools and objects to create new ideas and see how their designs alter the site.

Believed to be the first of its kind to use computer gaming technology in this way, the project aims to communicate with young people about their futures in a way that is both fun and productive. The technology can then be used to seek feedback on young people’s ideas from other residents, as user created comic-strips and videos will be produced, shared and opinions invited.

The first event in the series was held at Alexandra High & Sixth Form Centre’s community room on Tuesday, February 12. But don’t worry – its not to late to join in. From a skyscraper to a country cottage - what would you build? Now is your chance to get involved and become a virtual architect, help shape a new face of the Tibbington estate. What would you like to see - create your ideal place to live using a mouse, keyboard and lots of imagination.

Councillor Derek Rowley, Sandwell Council’s cabinet member for safer communities, said: “This project is groundbreaking. Never before has computer gaming technology come together with community consultation in this way.

The end result is that Sandwell Council manages to get the opinions of people who wouldn’t usually speak out, and the young people involved get to have loads of fun. There are also opportunities for further training.”

Notes to editors:

The computer game project is being co-ordinated by Sandwell Council through the Safer Stronger Communities Fund, Digital Native Academy and Arts Council Creative Communities through MADE (Midlands Architecure and the Designed Environment - architecture centre in the West Midlands), with support from Sandwell Homes, Alexandra High & Sixth Form Centre, Connexions and Murray Hall Community Trust.