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The Meanwhile Project is a philosophy, a policy and a programme of work.

As a philosophy Meanwhile is based on the belief that empty properties spoil town centres, destroy economic and social value, and waste resources that we cannot afford to leave idle. Vibrant interim uses led by local communities will benefit existing shops, as well as the wider town centre, through increased footfall, bringing life back to the high street and making better use of resources overall.

As a policy Meanwhile was a key aspect of the Government’s 'Looking after our town centres' document, launched on 14 April 2009 including the empty shops revival plan to prevent high street decline. It is part of CLG’s broader Community Finance proposals, included in CLG/DEFRA policy on making land available for community growing, and it also featured in the Strategy for Seaside Success.

As a programme of work, the Meanwhile Project has been providing practical and financial support for a wide range of meanwhile approaches in towns throughout the country, as well as technical advice, manuals and leases to help anyone who wants to do something positive in the meanwhile.

The Meanwhile Project is led by the Development Trusts Association as part of its wider Advancing Assets for Communities programme supported by the department for Communities and Local Government (CLG).