Locale Lens: Sam Kidby

What’s a misconception about your position?

It has to be what placemaking is. It’s not gentrification or marketing for developments. Placemaking is the creation of an engaged community where people will return for years to come, becoming a mirror of the people it serves.

What's an accomplishment you're really proud of?

Recently, we ran a competition to find Leake Street’s (London’s largest legal graffiti wall) first Artist in Residence, and in 2023 over 1,000 people visited the Arches and had workshops with them.

How would you spend 30 minutes of free time?

Reading a fantasy/sci-fi series or playing ScrabbleGo…not sure how I’ve become so addicted to both of those!

Are you an early bird or a night owl?

Late, late owl, but being forced into an early bird since having twins!

What is your motto or personal mantra?

There is no such thing as ‘can’t.’ I have found that when you put your mind to something and keep a positive attitude, great things can happen.