Evaluative case study: Gap Filler a creative urban regeneration initiative: A public health perspective

Date of Publication: May 2017

Gap Filler (a registered charity) emerged following the devastating Canterbury earthquakes of 2010/11 and responded with a large number of innovative urban regeneration initiatives. Gap Filler has been prolific in the delivery of a broad range of artistic, creative, educational, enabling and inspiring interventions that have gained considerable profile and following among locals and visitors alike. The projects have ranged from small short-term installations or activities to major medium-term architectural-build projects.

This evaluative case study highlights some of the complexities inherent in measuring the ‘effects’ of community-level wellbeing interventions. The report also discusses recovery, resilience and wellbeing concepts generally as well as exploring the attributes of successful community-based initiatives. Finally, the report proposes considerations for funders and other stakeholders.