The Open University will work with SPC to explore community interactions via a local network. This pilot will engage a diverse population within a limited geographical area, Deptford, in South East London, UK.

Deptford is an inner-city area with a mixed socio-economic profile, including low income neighbourhoods, artist communities, student populations attending a range of institutions including Goldsmith’s College, Ravensbourne College and the University of Greenwich; and urban professionals. Formerly a wealthy area, economic activity declined with the closure of the nearby dockyards, though a process of redevelopment and gentrification is underway, which has led to local debates about the identity and future of the area.

SPC has worked in Deptford since 2001 and has contacts with local people, community groups, social enterprises, higher education and business interests in the area. SPC has been running a community wireless network OWN (Open Wireless Network) to provide free street level internet access utilising the latest low cost and low power equipment since 2008, developing from their 2001 original network.