Collaborative participatory mapping as a method for capturing local community-based knowledge: a Southampton case study

Reed, Lizzie (2025) Collaborative participatory mapping as a method for capturing local community-based knowledge: a Southampton case study. In, Congdon, Shirley and de Graaf, Kasper (eds.) Culture, Place and Development: Ideas for driving development through culture and creativity for the benefit of local people and places. (Urban Innovation, 2, 2) Key Cities Innovation Network, pp. 71-89.

Abstract

This paper offers suggestions of how to identify and understand the cultural spaces utilised by minoritized groups. Traditional data collection methods can fail to capture the nuances of everyday cultural practices, in response the pilot study detailed here deploys a novel, low cost, participatory collaborative mapping methodology. The research aimed to: (1) create a space for community building and knowledge sharing, and (2) capture the intangible aspects of sub-cultural practices as it manifests in diverse and often overlooked locations. Working with local partners including a community centre, small business owners, and community group organisers, our pilot found that that "cultural space" extends beyond designated or expected venues, instead encompassing parks, commercial spaces, and even domestic settings. The study emphasizes the importance of understanding the subjective experiences of safety, belonging, and community in shaping cultural landscapes. The collaborative participatory mapping method provides a valuable tool for empowering community members, fostering dialogue, capturing intangible cultural practices, and informing more inclusive and effective urban planning and cultural policy. Recommendations for replicating and adapting the method for use in different cities with different populations are made with some discussion of setting measures for success.

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Contributors

Author: Lizzie Reed

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