European Port Cities and Urban Regeneration: Exploring Cultural and Sporting Mega Events at the Water's Edge

Culture- and event-led regeneration has transformed redundant urban port areas and reframed the image of many port cities, but there is little understanding of the impacts on port-city relationships and how port city cultures shape mega events and regeneration strategies. This book examines the mutual links between urban and socio-economic regeneration, spatial, political, and symbolic ties between cities and their ports, with in-depth case studies and examples from other port cities. It explores issues such as the tension between port and cultural uses, reactions and opposition to mega events, the role of port authorities and companies in the city's cultural life, the spectacularization and commodification of local maritime culture and heritage, and processes of cultural demaritimization and remaritimization.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 236 pages
Publication date: 29 January 2024
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Culture- and event-led regeneration have played a pivotal role in transforming redundant urban port areas and reshaping the image of numerous port cities, particularly in their pursuit of mega-event bids and hosting responsibilities. While these processes have brought about significant changes, there is a limited understanding of their impact on port-city relationships and the role of port city cultures in shaping mega events and related regeneration strategies. To address this gap, the book delves into the understudied interconnectedness between urban and socio-economic regeneration driven by cultural and sporting mega events and the spatial, political, and symbolic ties between cities and their ports.

By adopting a cross-national, comparative perspective, the book includes in-depth case studies of Hull, Rotterdam, Genoa, and Valencia, as well as examples from other port cities worldwide that have hosted mega events. Through these case studies and examples, the book engages with a range of issues, including the tension between port and cultural uses, reactions and opposition to mega events in port cities, the clash of urban imaginaries influenced by port activity and culture, the role of port authorities and companies in fostering cultural life in cities, the spectacularization and commodification of local maritime culture and heritage, processes of cultural demaritimization and remaritimization of port cities.

The book aims to bridge the gap between port city and mega-event studies, providing valuable insights for port city policy makers and mega-event promoters. Drawing from a diverse range of international experiences, the book offers valuable lessons and recommendations for policymakers and promoters seeking to leverage the potential of culture- and event-led regeneration for sustainable urban development.

Furthermore, the book raises important considerations about the potential challenges and uncertainties facing culture- and event-led regeneration in the context of the current 'ontologically-insecure times.' As societal and political change continues to shape the landscape, it is crucial to examine the long-term implications of these processes on port-city relationships and the sustainability of regeneration strategies.

In conclusion, the book contributes significantly to our understanding of the complex dynamics between cities, ports, and mega events. By exploring the mutual links between urban regeneration, cultural mega events, and port city cultures, it provides valuable insights for policymakers, promoters, and scholars interested in sustainable urban development and the role of culture in shaping cities.

Weight: 390g
Dimension: 156 x 233 x 16 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367761752