4 - Urban Regeneration

Define urban regeneration

The attempt reverse decline in an area by improving the buildings, infrastructure and economy.

State the case study for urban regeneration

Stratford, part of the borough of Newham in London

Briefly explain the unemployment and accommodation in Stratford compared to London and England

High unemployment rates of 7.38 compared to 3.35 in England and only slightly higher in London. High percentage of residents in flats or rented accommodation at 48% compared to 14% in England and 33% in London. Very few residents own cars.

In detail explain Stratfords initial economic situation

In 1850 the Royal Docks on the Thames opened growing several industries such as food, textiles, engineering. By 1900s lots of immigrants and skilled workforce who had migrated there due to job opportunities. After WW1, global depression and business decline lead to unemployment due to costs and machinery. Factories relocated therefore people left the area and sites became derelict and left lots of brownfield land.

Explain the urban regeneration of the economy in Stratford

Between 1950-1975 more than 40,000 jobs were lost. Now there is a scheme to build 25,000 new homes, driverless trains for connections and many office blocks. 100,000 new jobs created and Canary Wharf. However young people didn't have access to education and training and couldn't reach higher paid jobs.

Explain Stratford's need to social change

1 in 4 houses were overcrowded and there was a lack of affordable housing. Due to 41% of community are under 24 there is a need to childcare especially in 1 parent families as they can't work. Few community facilities and low health levels - lower QoL

Explain Stratford's need for environmental change

There was contaminated brownfield land due to old factories which could not be used due to toxic substances and oils, metals. Rivers and canals were used for fly tipping and there was poor water quality. High levels of dereliction and waste landfills like the 20-foot wall 'Fridge Mountain'.

What was 1 of the reasons for the Stratford Regeneration program

London 2012 Olympics

State the economic impacts of Stratford regeneration

9 billion investment much of which went into transport making it the 2nd most connected part of London's and with Eurostar station. Over 50,00 jobs created by 2030 bringing more than 5 billion into the area

State the social impacts of Stratford regeneration

Athletes village is housing estate 40% of the 2818 new homes affordable. Construction college to supply skilled workers for building sites. New academy for 2,000 pupils. 50m swimming pools. However, affordable rents aren't cheap enough for some families and there are still high levels of unemployment as they lack skills and support.

State the environmental impacts of Stratford regeneration

Olympic site built on 560 acres of brownfield land where the soil had been cleaned. River Lea water quality improved and green areas along banks created called 'Greenway riverside walk'. Electricity pylons dismantled and placed underground to improve appearance. However there are still some dumping grounds and many materials came from overseas.

Overall, state the main changes in the area of Stratford after regeneration from a map

Stratford 'marsh' industrial area relocated. A115 road demolished for infrastructure. New station for underground and retail centres. Facilities like stadium, bmx track, velodrome etc. from Olympic park.