Human Geography Fieldwork Study Notes: Brindleyplace Redevelopment

Enquiry Overview and Geographical Context

  • Aim: Investigate consequences of redevelopment in Brindleyplace.
  • Location: Brindleyplace, Birmingham; 1 km west of Birmingham New Street Station.
  • Local Geography: Located in Birmingham's Central Business District (CBD); well-connected via road and canals.
  • Site History: Brownfield site, previously industrial (factories/warehouses).
  • Landmarks: Includes regional sites like Five Ways, local sites such as Crescent Theatre, SEA LIFE Centre, and corporate presence like BlackRock.

Geographical Theory: Sustainable Communities and Egan's Wheel

  • Core Theory: Enquiry underpinned by sustainable communities and SEEK framework (Social, Economic, Environmental impacts).
  • Egan's Wheel: Criteria for sustainability:
    • Social & Cultural: Inclusive communities.
    • Housing: Quality built environment.
    • Governance: Effective participation and leadership.
    • Transport: Connectivity to employment and services.
    • Services: Accessible public and private services.
    • Economy: Diverse local economy.
    • Environmental: Sustainable living.

Hypotheses and Rationales

  • Hypothesis 1: Attractive environment post-redevelopment.
    • Rationale: Previous industrial decay necessitated environmental improvement.
  • Hypothesis 2: Positive public perception of Brindleyplace.
    • Rationale: Successful redevelopment should enhance appeal and opportunities.

Methodology: Risk Assessment

  • Location Suitability: Accessible and safe for social studies; allowed for observation of redevelopment impacts.
  • Risk Management:
    • Group interaction for questionnaires, conducted in secure areas.
    • Canal safety observed; no data collection near water's edge.

Data Collection

Secondary Data
  • Definition: Pre-collected data for analysis.
  • Historical photographs: Show transition from industrial decline to quality redevelopment.
Primary Data
  • Environmental Quality Survey (EQS): Assessed building condition, maintenance, litter, pollution, and safety; scored from 1 (Very Poor) to 5 (Excellent).
  • Sampling: Systematic sampling across five locations.

Results and Analysis

  • Trends: High environmental quality across sites; scores 25/30 or higher.
  • Strengths: Attractive buildings; proactive Estate Team.
  • Weaknesses: Pollution levels persist; lower scores at less frequented sites.

Conclusions

  • Redevelopment leads to positive outcomes: transformation into a sustainable hub.
  • Successful in creating an attractive environment and garnering positive opinions, albeit with limited questionnaire sample size.