About this Event
An opportunity to share ideas on how we can transform parks, public spaces and libraries in to cultural and creative hubs for our communities.
Building on conversations regarding ‘Third Spaces’ and ‘Everyday Utopias’ held with Kitty’s Launderette at a previous Lab Session, we are inviting partners and local residents to share ideas on how new strategies led by the council’s parks, libraries and culture teams might help enhance these spaces as free to access cultural and community spaces. Discussions will feed into the development of a new ‘Cultural, Creative and Heritage Asset Strategy’ being developed by Rochdale Development Agency on behalf of the cultural compact (Rochdale Creates) and Rochdale Borough Council, as well as new strategies being developed for the borough’s libraries and green spaces.
Concepts of Third Spaces and Everyday Utopias
The idea of a “third space” comes from urban sociologist Ray Oldenburg, who described it as a social environment separate from home (the first space) and work (the second space). These are places where people gather, build community, share ideas and find a sense of belonging.
The idea of “everyday utopias” is about enacting conventional activities in unusual ways. Instead of dreaming about a better world, participants seek to create it.
Lab Session Details:
9.30am-11.30am Thursday November 26th 2026
Rochdale Masonic Hall, Richard St, OL11 1DU (Free Parking Available, also 2 min walk from Train Station and Tram Stop).
Event venue & nearby stays
Masonic Hall, 1 Richard Street, Rochdale, United Kingdom
Concerts, fests, parties, meetups — all the happenings, one place.