An Auto-ethnographic Account
Since starting the PhD, I have documented my interaction and experiences in a notebook. This I did to help myself understand my feelings associated to different phases of my research, learn about the ways of communication between myself and the people of Paisley, and track the research process.
It is also a way to understand how my previous experiences with decay in my own environment have impacted the way that I approach this research.
This page is an account of my personal notes, thoughts and feelings during my research process. All organisations and key contacts have been anonymised.
Things that stand out in decaying spaces in Paisley
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Most of the decaying spaces are laying beside a car road.
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Graffiti present in various spaces, street art also present.
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A couple of marked vacant spaces are very similar due to their appearance as a large open green space. It is popularly used as a dog walking space (>13 spaces).
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The garbage found at some spaces looks to be quite old (i.e. degrading boxes, older plastics).
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Some spaces are situated beside irregular/broken foot paths. It would seem difficult for disabled individuals to visit some of these spaces currently.
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Most spaces are situated next/close to lampposts, giving the suggestion that the spaces are lit at night, and that the absence of light is not a factor in antisocial behaviour at the sites.
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Types of uses of the spaces currently: people sitting down, taking a slow stroll with the baby wagon, dog walking, nursery groups walking by, dogs running around. Noticeable absence of people playing games, entertainment, music, leisure activities such as sporting.
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Car domination: all spaces situated on a car accessible road. In 11 spaces, it was almost impossible to take a picture without a car in the frame.
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Interesting note: three of the spaces are unused car parks, while a car park was discussed in the workshop as a potential preferred re-use type.