diverse places local examples

Perceptions of rural living spaces: Victorian London

Construction of proper sewage systems. Metropolitan police founded 1829 improves law and order. New homes build for middle class. Poor lives in slums. West end improved by building regent street and Piccadilly Circus, new Houses of Parliament, Buckingham palace, Trafalgar Square and national gallery, opulent housing for the wealthy in Belgravia

Perceptions of rural living spaces: Hardy’s Wessex

Was a writer of the rural idyll from 1840-1928. Best known novels mayor of Catserbridge, Jude the obscure. He gave detailed descriptions of country life throughout the year. Has become recognised as. The epitome of the vanishing English rural heartland.

Tensions and conflict: Deptford

Had the most important dockyard in England was associated with maritime industries prospered until 1869 when it closed. Was it by the economic depression in 1930s. Was also heavily bombed in 1939-45 during WW2. 1950s-60s attempts to revive Deptford and build large new estates of public housing. Pepys estate occupied in 1966 made by London council provided 1200 homes. Became crime corridors with frequent muggings. In the 1990s there was significant investment into the estate but didn’t achieve much. In 2000 The Hyde group entered into a partnership with the local borough to regenerate 5 blocks into high quality homes. From these improvements it caused rent to rise for the estate as people outside realised the benefits of it. Pressure to improve more of the estate but long term residents don’t want this as they would no longer be able to afford it.

Tensions and conflict: Glasgow

Contains 15% of the most deprived areas in Scotland. The deprived areas have missed out in investments. Locals are hostile towards agencies of government. Also internal tensions because of ethnic diversity. Wards contain high amounts of people not from Scotland Anderston 42%, hillhead 37% and pollokshields 30%. The white British population feel that ethnic minorities are responsible for high rates of unemployment feel immigrants stealing jobs, the authorities not bothering to invest in poorer areas, the dilution of Scottish culture. Ethnic tensions have grown since 9/11 attacks in USA, the 7/7 bombings in London and the Glasgow airport attack 2007 with a significant number of immigrant arrrivals since 2001

Urban stakeholders and criteria for managing change: Oxford

Oxford is a growing city with a strong economy and high demand for housing, but its tight administrative boundaries and surrounding green belt limit new development. The city council is struggling to find suitable locations for affordable housing to meet projected demand. Six possible sites have been identified, but concerns remain over sustainability, infrastructure, and local opposition.

Key urban stakeholders in Oxford include residents, businesses, universities, and ethnic minority groups. Different groups have varying priorities: residents seek affordable housing, businesses need a stable workforce, and universities want to attract top talent. Ethnic minorities, who are more likely to face housing challenges, are also key stakeholders.

Managing change involves balancing economic growth with social needs, infrastructure development, and environmental preservation. Strategies include building affordable housing, encouraging sustainable urban expansion, and maintaining Oxford’s global reputation as a center of education and industry.

Rural stakeholders and criteria for managing change: Breckland

Key Stakeholders

Breckland Council is the main local authority driving development. Their "Future Breckland: Thriving People & Places" project aims to regenerate market towns, support local businesses, improve infrastructure and housing, protect heritage, and boost sustainability and well-being through strong community engagement.

Breckland Farmers Wildlife Network (BFWN) brings together over 50 farmers managing more than 100,000 acres. They work collaboratively to protect biodiversity, improve soil health, and reconnect fragmented landscapes through a Landscape Recovery pilot under the UK’s Environmental Land Management scheme.

Local Communities and Businesses also play a vital role. Parish councils, residents, and small enterprises are consulted on local plans, ensuring development aligns with community needs, values, and aspirations. Platforms like "Commonplace" are used to gather feedback and build consensus.

Criteria for Managing Change

Sustainability: All development must balance environmental, social, and economic factors to ensure long-term viability without harming future generations.

Environmental Stewardship: Protecting Breckland’s natural assets—such as its heathlands, forests, and rare species—is crucial. Initiatives like the BFWN emphasize integrating farming with habitat restoration.

Community Engagement: Successful change depends on meaningful input from the people who live and work in Breckland. Inclusive planning ensures projects reflect local identity and needs.

Economic Growth & Infrastructure: Investment in jobs, transport, housing, and digital access is essential to support rural life and attract new opportunities, while retaining the character of the region.