Sandown Bay
The Common Space is proudly based in the picturesque Sandown Bay area, a region that serves as a focal point for our work. Over the years, we have completed numerous projects that have left a lasting impact on this vibrant and thriving community. From transformative urban development initiatives to innovative environmental conservation efforts, our team has been actively involved in enhancing the landscape and quality of life in Sandown Bay. We have worked closely with local organisations and residents, fostering a strong sense of community and collaboration. The unique beauty and charm of Sandown Bay continue to inspire us, making it a place we are deeply committed to and eager to continue our work in.
The Iris Manifesto
Inspiring Revival In Sandown
Make a place for people.
Unleash new strength.
Enrich our environment.
Unify for a common good.
Hullabaloo
Hullabaloo is a FREE Discovery & Exploration event in Sandown Bay on the Isle of Wight.
An unusual combination of the arts, sciences & heritage together with the madcap antics of carnival & seaside traditions.
The Lost Duver
The Lost Duver project in The Bay aims to create a 5-mile coastal garden by incorporating elements of a historical dune habitat. Through plant rescue, propagation, seed collection, and guerrilla gardening, the project transforms public spaces, street plantings, parks, and coastal walks into rich habitats for biodiversity. With the support of various organisations and volunteers, the project has successfully established native coastal plants, recreated dune slacks with ponds, and introduced wildlife food plants in public plantings. The project's focus on rewilding and inclusivity has earned it recognition and awards, contributing to the thriving ecosystem and community engagement in The Bay.
The Willow Walk
The Willow Walk and the surrounding area were created as a living Field Studies Guide, to integrate and celebrate the diverse environments that exist in Sandown Bay; the historic plants that once coloured ancient dunes as well as an exploration of Sandown’s military past - the hidden Pluto Pipeline. Bringing this forgotten corner of public realm back to life began as part of our work as the Bay Coastal Community Team back in 2015. With the help of the Hampshire CRC payback team and volunteers, we carved a path through willows and along a stream to the Grade II listed Browns Pavilion. From there we built ponds and seeded the ‘Lost Duver Meadow’, continuing the trail through the reedbeds. We continue this community project to this day, raising funds, planting and experimenting with habitat enhancements. This 1km circular trail has become a well-loved and known resource for residents and visitors to the Bay all year round, working better for wildlife, highlighting biodiversity and offering an educational experience for all.
Boojum & Snark
Just the Place! The first entirely craft beer taproom on the Island. Boojum&Snark is a one-of-a-kind venue on the Isle of Wight where you can enjoy a good beer, ‘tap’ into culture and shake a leg. Half-way along Sandown’s High Street, you’ll find a year-round programme of exhibitions and events featuring contemporary art and photography, and the ‘hidden meanings and narratives that resonate with the Sandown’s cultural heritage.’ The Common Space are proud to have supported this ace space!
The vision of Julie Jones-Evans and Tracy Mikich, Boojum&Snark was made possible through a grant from the Coastal Community Fund in 2019. We co-wrote the application and helped to secure funding of £50,000 after Tracy and Julie approached us to collaborate. As well as being the Island’s first modern craft beer taproom, Boojum&Snark were keen to champion Island arts, to bring exciting exhibitions, events and happenings to the Bay Area.
The Boojum mix of micro-museum, Spoken Word, Silent Discos, Urban Walks, Schilling Hat Carnival revivals and co-working space in the centre of town is a brave, colourful experiment. And their Bay-inspired beer is award-winning too!
Brown’s Golf and Cafe
Saving the PLUTO Pavilion - Men in Sheds
The PLUTO Pavilion, located at Brown's Golf Course in Sandown Bay, Isle of Wight, is a significant piece of national history from World War II. The pavilion served as the power station for Operation PLUTO (Pipeline Under The Ocean), an engineering marvel that supplied fuel to Allied vehicles during the D-Day landings. The pavilion, in a precarious state of decay, is being restored by The Bay Coastal Community Team (CCT) and local volunteers. The initial stage of conservation has been supported by funding, but additional funds are required to complete the authentic restoration, preservation of contents, and provide public access. A crowdfunding campaign, coordinated by The Common Space, has been launched to raise £5,000 for this purpose. The restoration aims to honor the Pavilion's historical significance and ensure its survival, showcasing its remarkable story to the public.
The National Poo Museum
A world of waste awaits!
The Poo Museum collection contains pooey artefacts from across the world and the history of life on Earth.
