Social Impact Report

Case Study: The Remakery – Empowering Circular Economy and Climate Action through OCO Connect CIC Support

Overview

The Remakery Brixton is a community-led cooperative dedicated to promoting circular economy principles and sustainable making practices.

In 2024, OCO Connect CIC supported the organisation to secure £110, 545 across 3 successful grant applications from the London Borough of Lambeth through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) to deliver extensive building improvements and equipment upgrades to its workspace at 51 Lilford Road, SE5 9HY.

The project aimed to increase the accessibility, energy efficiency, and long-term sustainability of the Remakery’s facilities, creating a hub for green enterprise and community skill development.

Our Response

OCO Connect CIC provided comprehensive support to The Remakery across multiple stages of the project, contributing significantly to its successful implementation and compliance with UKSPF requirements.

This includes

OCO Connect CIC worked closely with The Remakery to structure and submit a compelling funding application to Lambeth Council, ensuring alignment with UKSPF outcomes around Communities and Place.

OCO established clear systems for tracking progress, outputs, and outcomes in accordance with Schedule 1 of the grant agreement. This included quantifying volunteer hours, collecting equalities and employment data, and coordinating evidence submissions.

Acting as project lead, OCO Connect CIC coordinated contractors, managed timelines, and oversaw delivery of both capital and equipment investments, ensuring completion against the approved plan and budget.

Key Deliverables and Building Improvements

Under OCO Connect’s project management, The Remakery successfully delivered both Part 1 (Building Improvements) and Part 2 (Equipment & Workspace Enhancements), including:

  • Upgraded electrical and heating systems for improved energy efficiency and winter usability.
  • Installed new HVAC, LED lighting, and insulation, addressing comfort and sustainability goals.
  • Created new specialist zones:
    • Lab Space for eco-material experimentation.
    • Textiles Room for sustainable fashion and reuse.
    • Machine Room and Project Space for local entrepreneurs.
    • Materials Store and Equipment Rental Area for community use.
    • Community Kitchen equipped with an industrial dishwasher to support inclusive food workshops.

These upgrades have enhanced approximately 900m² of commercial space and improved one key commercial building, positioning The Remakery as a key circular economy hub within Lambeth.

Outcomes achieved

Through OCO Connect CIC’s coordination, the project has achieved and evidenced strong UKSPF-aligned outcomes:
Outcome AreaTarget / AchievementDetails
Improved commercial space900m²Building modernisation, improved heating, lighting, and usability
Commercial buildings improved1Remakery Brixton workspace fully refurbished
Jobs created6 part-time (3 FTE)Supported new eco-business start-ups and expanded membership base
Jobs safeguarded4 part-time (2 FTE)Retained core staff and community facilitators
Volunteer hours logged150+Local tradespeople, students, and facilitators supported works
Environmental impactReduced carbon emissionsThrough energy-efficient systems and sustainable materials
Equalities & InclusionMonitoredOpportunities created for underrepresented and diverse groups in green enterprise

Social and Environmental Impact

The project has doubled the number of regular users and created new pathways into sustainable making and entrepreneurship.

By expanding access to affordable workspace and equipment, The Remakery now incubates at least 10 small eco-enterprises annually.

The improvements directly support Lambeth’s Climate Action Plan and the borough’s net zero transition goals.
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