human geography: far place study - Brighton

how was Brighton presented in the 18th+19th century?

• Royal Patronage: Brighton's rise to prominence began in the late 18th century, with the patronage of King George IV. Prince's frequent visits and the construction of the Royal Pavilion established Brighton as a fashionable destination.

• Literature and Print Media: Brighton was frequently featured in literature and print media as a chic and stylish resort. Guidebooks and travel literature praised its health benefits, attractive promenades, and social scene.

  Jane Austen's "Pride and Prejudice" (1813) mentions Brighton as a lively and appealing location

• arrival of the railway in 1841 further boosted its popularity, making it accessible to Londoners seeking leisure and health benefits

how was Brighton presented in the early 20th century?

• Artistic and Cultural Scene: cultivate a reputation as a bohemian retreat -attracted artists, writers, and intellectuals, contributing to its image as a cultural hub. establishment of numerous theaters, galleries, and music venues.

• Cinema and Literature: Graham Greene's novel "Brighton Rock" (1938) provided a darker portrayal of the city, depicting it as a place of crime and moral ambiguity.

how was Brighton presented in the 20th century?

• Post-War Decline: Following World War II, Brighton experienced a period of decline. Economic hardships and competition from international travel led to a deterioration in its tourist infrastructure.

• Media Representation: the city became a symbol of youth culture, particularly with the infamous Mods and Rockers clashes in 1964. These events were widely covered in newspapers and newsreels, highlighting Brighton as a center of youth rebellion and counterculture.

how is Brighton presented in the media today?

Tourism and Festivals: Brighton has undergone significant revitalization, becoming known for its vibrant arts scene, diverse population, and progressive value e.g. city hosts numerous festivals, such as the Brighton Festival

Television and Film: Brighton frequently features in contemporary television series, films, and documentaries - shows like "Cuckoo" and films like "The Boat That Rocked" showcase Brighton's unique character and lively atmosphere.

Digital and Social Media: In the age of digital media, Brighton's representation has become more multifaceted - social media platforms and online travel guides depict the city as a trendy, inclusive, and bustling place, appealing to a wide range of visitors and residents.

what economic and social connections does Brighton have?

economy has been shaped by its connections to other regions, particularly London.

city's proximity to the capital has made it a popular commuter town, influencing housing, employment, and social dynamics.

connection has driven economic growth but also led to rising property prices and gentrification, affecting the local population.

what cultural connections does Brighton have?

Brighton is renowned for its cultural festivals, such as the Brighton Festival and Brighton Fringe, which attract visitors and artists from around the world.

• events foster a sense of community and cultural exchange, reinforcing Brighton's reputation as a creative and inclusive city.

how does Brightons identity and branding affect its meaning and representation?

Brighton's identity has been crafted through branding and representation - city markets itself as a liberal, diverse, and vibrant place, attracting tourists, students, and residents who align with these values.

evident in its promotion of LGBTQ+ rights, environmental sustainability, and artistic expression.

how does Brightons historical significance affect its meaning and representation?

Brighton's rich history is represented through its architecture, museums, and heritage sites.

The Royal Pavilion, a former royal residence, symbolizes the city's Regency-era elegance and exoticism - contribute to Brighton's unique character and appeal.

what continuity is there in Brighton?

Brighton retains aspects of its historical identity. The seafront, with its iconic pier and beach, continues to be a central attraction.

The city's commitment to preserving its heritage buildings and promoting its historical narrative ensures continuity in its character.

what change is there in Brighton?

demographic and economic landscape

• influx of young professionals and students has shifted the city's social dynamics, leading to a more cosmopolitan atmosphere.

• Technological advancements and the digital economy have also transformed Brighton into a tech hub, dubbed "Silicon Beach."

how have economic opportunities in Brighton altered lived experience?

dynamic economy provides diverse employment opportunities, particularly in the creative industries, technology, and tourism.

• economic diversity attracts a wide range of individuals seeking career growth and lifestyle benefits.

how have social inclusivity in Brighton altered lived experience?

reputation for inclusivity and progressive values creates a welcoming environment for diverse communities - enhances social cohesion and provides a sense of belonging for marginalized groups.

how have challenges of change in Brighton altered lived experience?

Rapid gentrification and rising living costs present challenges for long-term residents, particularly those from lower socio-economic backgrounds.

the pressure on housing and services can lead to displacement and social tension.

what are Brighton’s economic disparities?

• There are areas of significant wealth, particularly in central and seafront locations, contrasted with pockets of deprivation, particularly in some suburban areas.

• The cost of living in Brighton is relatively high, driven by property prices and rents. This has led to challenges for lower-income residents and has impacted the affordability of housing.

what economic changes has Brighton undergone?

1. Shift from Tourism to Diverse Economy:

   • While tourism remains important, Brighton’s economy has diversified -“Silicon Beach” due to the high concentration of tech startups and digital businesses.

   • The education sector also plays a significant role in the local economy, with the universities providing employment and attracting a transient student population.

2. Gentrification

what are some of the social inequalities in Brighton?

1. Housing Affordability:

   rise in property prices has made housing less affordable for many residents, particularly young people and those on lower incomes - increased demand for social housing and affordable rental options.

2. Employment Opportunities:

   • there is also a segment of the population that remains in lower-paid, seasonal, or part-time work, often associated with the tourism and service sectors.

   • The disparity in employment opportunities contributes to a broader income gap within the city, impacting access to resources and services for different community groups.

how is Brighton represented through Olivia Wallers countermap?

• highlights historical aspects such as the royal pavilion + town hall and clock tower

• independent shops

• use of wind turbines in the sea

• emphasis on imagery of the sea

→ however, should be remembered this is artists subjective view

how is Brighton presented in the IMD data map?

significant levels of deprivation along the seafront despite regeneration

less central areas are the least deprived

what is the North Laine’s significance to Brighton?

• creative centre

• ‘heart and soul of Brighton’

• independent shops, no big chains, resident association to keep the shops

what are some economic statistics?

41% jobs in the knowledge economy

1 out of 5 jobs in the city are linked with tourism

2 universities - student population over 35,000

2nd highest number of internal migrants leaving from London

employment rate - 75.7%

how does tourism impact Brighton?

day visitors + conference tourism account for the industry → lower spend per head

over 9.5 mill from day visitors

how has Brighton rebranded itself?

• a creative city with a blend of modern culture and architecture

• free-spirited/free-thinking city

• creative, european/cosmopolitain, dynamic energy

what has caused conflict in Brighton?

studentification → impact of student housing on communities

increased house prices, higher levels of degradation, competition for services

residents spend on average 57% of their income on rent - ‘little london’

how does public sculptures in Brighton reflect the town’s identity?

• Kiss wall - depicts pictures of 6 kissing couples, shows Brightons diverse and accepting community

• Tay memorial - shows intertwined lovers in the shape of the aids charity bow - Brighton’s status as an LGBTQ+ capital of the UK

• jubilee clock tower - celebrating the Queens gold jubilee

what was Brighton’s economic strategy?

• city council

• sense of community → supportive

• sustainable community

• international connections + close to London

• social enterprise capital ‘social conscience’

what is Brighton’s population history?

Brighton's current population is around 260,000 – after its boom in the early 19th century, the area declined significantly and until around 30 years ago it was in need of development and renovation  

-> 1950s recession + reduction in importance and population = urban decline until the early 2000s which led to an urban resurgence 

what are some facts about studentification?

Around 37,000 students at Brighton and Sussex  

However, unis have not built adequate housing leading Brighton to have the highest number of HMOs – areas being dominated by students  

• Noise issues 

• Mainatince of properties  

• Community cohesion 

what are some associated issues with HMO’s?

• Shared responsibility for upkeep often results in neglect, as tenants may not feel individually accountable for communal areas. 

• With multiple tenants living together, especially if unrelated, noise complaints and conflicts between tenants or with neighbors can be frequent. 

• This issue can escalate in areas with high concentrations of HMOs, impacting community harmony. 

• Large numbers of HMOs in residential areas can change the character of a neighborhood, leading to a transient population and reduced community cohesion. 

 

what aspects of continuity had influenced Brighton?

• Brighton retains aspects of its historical identity. The seafront, with its iconic pier and beach, continues to be a central attraction. 

• The city's commitment to preserving its heritage buildings and promoting its historical narrative ensures continuity in its character. 

how does the Postcard Poem from Brighton by Fergus Blair?

'We dance all night' - nighttime economy and large student population -> socio-economic character 

Juxtaposed with beachfront image 'morning air, sea-chilled invites us to' - quiet seaside calm areas which seems idyllic 

how does the Brighton rock film present Brighton?

Place of contrasts – seedy and dangerous location as a backdrop for gangsters 

Negative portrayal plays on Brighton's reputation for being a town of moral ambiguity, with dark alleyways and shadowy characters 

However in 1950s Brighton was in decline  

• Shows derelict buildings indicating that there are high levels of deprivation  

what does Richard Burel’s artwork depicting the seafront present Brighton as?

Pride flag, the pier focused on the beach and placing Brighton as a beachside destination + word palace – historical architecture of Brighton.  

• Not useful for understanding conflict or socio-economic issues  

what does Toni Jay’s counter map illustrate?

Informal and an artistic representation -> subjective  

Useful in showing attractions and location in relation to other towns  

It also showcases lots of Victorian architecture  

• Useful for a tourist but arguably not for a local to use

what is the age of Brighton’s population?

• 276,300 residents (2021 Office for National Statistics mid-year population estimates) 

• 15% are under 16 years (19% South East, 19% E 

• ngland) 

• 72% are aged 16 to 66 years (64% South East, 65% England) 

• 10% are aged 67 to 84 years (16% South East, 15% England) 

• 2% are 85 years or older (3% South East, 2% England) 

what are the demographic characteristics of Brighton?

 

20% of residents were born outside of the UK 

 

More than a quarter of our residents (26%) are Black and Racially Minoritised (non White UK/British). 

where are the highest levels of deprivation in Brighton?

 

The highest concentration of deprivation is in the Whitehawk, Moulsecoomb and Hollingdean areas. Along the coast, to the west of the city and in Woodingdean there are also pockets of deprivation. All these areas are in the 20% most deprived areas in England. 

 

From 2011 to 2021, there has been reduction in homeownership in Brighton & Hove and an increase in private renters. 

what is the influence of global institutions on Brighton?

• EU and international environmental agreements shaped sustainability initiatives in Brighton (e.g., green energy projects).

• Brighton benefited from EU university funding, supporting institutions like the University of Sussex and Brighton.

what is the impact of TNCs on Brighton?

• Global tourism and digital businesses have reshaped Brighton’s economy. TNCs in tech, finance, and hospitality have set up satellite offices here.

• Large brands in retail and hospitality (e.g., Zara, McDonald’s, Hilton) contribute to the “clone town” effect, where the high street looks increasingly similar to other global cities.

• Airbnb and other platforms owned by global tech giants affect the housing market, increasing demand and prices.

what are some endogenous factors in Brighton?

• Physical Geography: Coastal location on the English Channel, with chalk cliffs and a shingle beach.

• Built Environment: Mix of Regency architecture, Victorian seafront, and modern developments.

• Demographics: Young, liberal, and diverse population. High LGBTQ+ representation. Strong student population (e.g. University of Sussex & Brighton).

• Local Culture: Known for creativity, tourism, and progressive politics. Festivals, independent shops, and arts scene contribute to a strong sense of place.

what are some exogenous characteristics in Brighton?

• Migration: Influx of people from London and other parts of the UK for lifestyle and affordability.

• Tourism: Attracts national and international visitors (e.g. Brighton Pride, beach tourism).

• Globalisation: International students and businesses, increased connectivity via transport and digital links.

what are some external agencies which have altered Brighton’s character?

• British Airways: Backed the construction of the Brighton i360, a major seafront attraction aimed at boosting tourism and the local economy.

• Brighton & Hove City Council: Promotes sustainable tourism and inclusive city branding.

• VisitBrighton: Marketing body shaping perceptions of Brighton as an inclusive, creative, and fun destination.