The aim of the CSA is to ensure the temporary use of vacant property by linking property owners or their agents with creative individuals and organisations who need space.

The Creative Space Agency and its website www.creativespaceagency.org.uk was launched at the Creative Links event on Thursday 22nd and Friday 23rd of June at the Truman Brewery in Brick Lane, E1 www.creativelinks.co.uk

The project is funded by the Arts Council England (London) and the LDA and is run by Urban Space Management and CIDA (the Cultural Industries Development Agency).
Urban Space Management's role is to liaise directly with interested property owners and sign them up as “space partners” and advise them on a suitable framework for temporary uses of their vacant spaces. We can also put them in contact with suitable creative organisations who have been screened by CIDA.

Although in general, creative organisations cannot usually afford full market rents, their use of the site can bring a number of useful benefits to property owners, including:
- Use of a vacant resource pending its change.
- A good potential PR opportunity.
- Positive message about the future of the site – arts activity can liven up your property.
- Assistance in “place making” - putting locations on the map.
- Added value by being involved in creative activity and assisting organisations and individuals within the creative sector.

The above benefits may not be possible on all sites nor desirable by all property owners. However, the current raised profile of the issues surrounding Corporate Social Responsibility and the negative press around vacant property in the eyes of both the general public and property market is having a direct impact on the image and actions of public and private sector property owners alike.

If you have any queries or would like to become involved in the Creative Space Agency project please contact either Chris Smith on chris.smith@urban-space.co.uk or John Burton on john.burton@urban-space.co.uk at Urban Space Management.