We Love Westwood!

Why Westwood?

We have been working in Westwood since November 2021. In that time, Charley (our Community Producer) has been popping along to events to meet people and chat, and listening to the kinds of projects that people want to see happen in the area.

We held a pop-up photobooth called “Westwood Wings” in February 2022 – where we let people pose in gorgeous props made by Laila Rikure of XL Decorations. We also handed out free, tasty cake which was made by residents at HMP Peterborough.

So far people have told us that they love the community spirit in Westwood, that people look out for each other, and they are proud of how clean the area is. Residents have told us that they would like to see activities for families and events and activities that are playful!

Charley has family and personal connections to Westwood too! Her mum and Nan lived in Westwood when they were younger and her Dad worked at Baker Perkins, starting as an apprentice. Charley grew up in Netherton, so some childhood friends also lived in the area.

We’ll be starting to run more arts projects in Westwood & Ravensthorpe in Spring 2022, including our first big project Westwood Walkway So, make sure you are following us on social media and are signed up to our newsletter.

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Creative Families

When we held our pop-up photobooth in Westwood, we met loads of creative kids and their families, and heard about all the great creative activities that families like to do together – from building to crafting to singing to drawing. There is also lots of independent crafters, from making props and cards to sewing and home DIY.

The Westwood Whistle

Westwood has a great history as one of the first new town neighbourhoods built in the city in the mid-1960s, and also as an RAF training base during the war, where the legendary Clark Gable was stationed.

Another piece of hidden history we have loved finding out about is the Westwood Whistle – a tune whistled by locals as a greeting or a cry for help. The whistle is well-known by locals and has been passed down to younger generations too.

Green Spaces

We love how many playparks and open green spaces are dotted around the area. We also love spending time at the Westraven Community Garden at the back of Hartwell Way. In November 2021 artist Sue Shields ran some drawing workshops in the garden. It was a fantastic setting as we were able to use nature as inspiration for our drawings.

Westraven Community Café

At our pop-up Westwood Wings event, so many people told us how much they value the community café as a space to hang out, meet people, and get involved in community activity. It is also a great place to get the local info as volunteer staff like Wendy have lived in the area for decades! The café has some regular sessions – from Zumba to friendship clubs. Click here to find out more about the Westraven Community Café

Dogs!

This one is a personal observation from Charley. In spending time hanging out in Westwood so far, she’s seen so many friendly four-legged friends out and about on walks. Who knows, there might be a Peterborough Presents project that works with Westwood dogs in the future!