From the experience of being involved in Hydefarm Greenstreets I would agree with the comments.
In this Hydefarm area of Balham sash windows are being draftproofed which makes a huge difference to the cosiness of the houses, as well as not wasting precious energy. We have a couple of experts who are confidently doing it. But more importantly the youtube video we are making shows individuals how to do it themselves and where to get the materials from. This video is being funded by British Gas. I have already had a lot of people into my house to see the windows and even I am becoming up-skilled. The audits means that we are all a bit better informed about what we could do to our house to make them more energy efficient.
I am hopeless on computers and nervous of social network sites. However, again project development and community projects are driving me to get more involved and realise that these sites are great for connecting local people. ( i just still have to work out how to use them!)
There is a lot more interest from individuals in this area to become involved in ambitious community projects now. What happens will depend on the confidence and willingness of lots of different individuals getting involved. I do think projects like Greenstreets do really energise a community. £100,000 also helps. xxxx £200,000 is even better. xxxx
I think the obstacles can be frustrating ( planning permission - discussions etc) especially when the individuals are doing it voluntarily. However it seems giving a community something really worthwhile and interesting to discuss brings together lots of people and groups together.
