A key attribute of placemaking is honouring a place’s rich heritage. This can be done in a small village or in a big city. Simply celebrating the place’s historical attributes or achievements can raise its profile, drive footfall and put a place firmly on the map.
You only have to mention certain places, and you are instantly reminded of a historic event or association, positive or negative. Liverpool – The Beatles, Nottingham – Robin Hood, Baker Street – Sherlock Holmes, and I’m sure you can bring your own examples to mind.
So many places fail to celebrate or unearth what they have.
In Leeds this summer, LeedsBID has looked at a new and innovative way of animating the city centre while acknowledging its rich heritage.
Back in the 1930s, Leeds-based manufacturer Waddingtons secured the license to produce the UK version of MONOPOLY, and was responsible for the now famous London properties in the game.
Actually, the very first game of MONOPOLY was played in Horsforth, Leeds; a historical event which will be celebrated later in the year with a Leeds Civic Trust blue plaque.
This summer, we are taking the original placemaking game of MONOPOLY, and working with Hasbro, and creating a Leeds Takeover. MONOPOLY Leeds Takeover brings the board game to life with the world’s first city-wide MONOPOLY experience.
Working with retailers, property landlords, arts and cultural institutions, Child Friendly Leeds, Leeds City Council, Leeds City Museum and Leeds Civic Trust, we are providing a ‘free’, large-scale, family-friendly activity during school summer holidays to inspire people of all ages to come and play in the city centre while helping drive that essential economic impact for businesses.
People simply need to pick up a map to join in the fun and embark on an adventure across Leeds city centre. Key locations and landmarks act as the board and there are giant tokens to find and clues, games and puzzles to solve as well as some great prizes up for grabs.
Placemaking doesn’t happen overnight – it takes time to formulate professionally and properly. MONOPOLY Leeds Takeover is the result of long-term strategic thinking, innovative ideas in bringing the game to life, imaginative curation of our city centre’s places and spaces and great collaboration.
I hope that the Monopoly concept will inspire others to dig deep and unearth place making gems, which can strengthen their own town and city, generating a reason to celebrating their past but also support the present in creating a dynamic and fun city where everyone feels part of the action.
MONOPOLY Leeds Takeover comes to the city from 27th-1st September. Get game ready @ monopolyleeds.com
