Hi I'm Mark, I've been a London Hackspace Member since 2011. I've been living in Colchester since 2012.
Colchester needs a maker/tinker/space/lab/thingy. To date there are only three spaces servicing the East of England. Technology is for everyone and shouldn't just be focussed or concentrated in the capital.
3d printer (credit: Kitty Wong)
Hack? Make? Space?
Relax, the hackspaces aren't hotbeds of computer criminal activity. We're the 2nd definition in the Wikipedia entry.
"Hacker (hobbyist), who makes innovative customizations or combinations of retail electronic and computer equipment"
The terms hackspace and makerspace can be used interchangeably.
We need a place where we can fabricate and realise projects, as well as share knowledge. We also need a way to acquire and share equipment and supplies that would prove costly if we as individuals were to fund it ourselves.
Also following in the traditions of many creative groups and organisations in Colchester, we should try to involve the community and engage people who might otherwise be fearful or suspicious of technology.
Paddy fixing an amplifer whilst a visitor looks on from the recent
London Hackspace Open Day (credit: Kitty Wong)
We've been offered the space itself, as part of the Waiting Room project, now we need the people to work out how best to make it happen. It's a community project, so we need to build something that works for the community.
What next?
Chris in front of the London Hackspace Spaceship
Simulator (credit: Benjamin Blundell)
If you would like to get involved, please join the mailing list and if you can attend the next meeting on Thursday 29th of August, 7pm at the St. Botolph's Waiting Room. Details below.
Background reading