CUE definitions

Counter urbanisation

The movement of people and jobs from large cities to smaller towns or rural areas.

Cultural diversity

The presence of various groups of people with different beliefs, values, and behaviors in a society.

Decentralisation

The movement of people and businesses from city centers to surrounding areas, contributing to the growth of suburbs.

Deindustrialisation

The long-term decline of manufacturing industries, leading to significant social and economic changes.

Demographic

Related to the characteristics and structures of populations.

Dereliction

When buildings and land are abandoned and fall into disrepair.

Edge city

A new urban area with shops, offices, and entertainment that exists outside a city's original borders.

Fortress development

Urban areas designed with security features for surveillance and protection.

Gentrified area

A part of a city improved and gentrified, often leading to higher property values and wealthier residents.

Liveability

Factors that make urban living comfortable, such as safety, amenities, and job opportunities.

Megacity

A city with a population of over 10 million people.

Particulates

Tiny particles released into the air from burning fossil fuels, like coal or oil.

Regeneration

The process of renewing urban or rural areas, which can involve economic and social improvements.

Social cohesion

The degree to which people in a community are connected and share values.

Social segregation

How groups of people are separated based on factors like income or ethnicity.

Suburbanisation

The expansion of cities into surrounding areas as people move to suburbs.

Sustainable cities

Cities that adapt to changes while promoting economic, social, and environmental health without burdening future generations.

Sustainable urban drainage systems (SuDS)

Methods to manage rainwater using natural processes to prevent flooding.

Urban heat island effect

Urban areas that are significantly warmer than their rural surroundings.

Urban policy

Government strategies to manage urban development and address related issues.

Urban resurgence

The return of people and businesses to previously declining areas.

Waste stream

The complete journey of waste from its source to recycling or disposal.

World city (global city)

Cities that have a significant influence globally due to their history and economic roles.

Cycle of deprivation

A negative feedback loop where economic decline leads to worsened living conditions.

Green belts

Protected areas of countryside around cities in the UK to prevent urban sprawl.

Idyll

A place with ideal living conditions.

Multicultural

The presence and acceptance of multiple cultural traditions in one area.

Social clustering

Groups of similar people living close together.