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, the spatial, political, and symbolic ties between cities and their ports, and the tension between port and cultural uses, reactions, and opposition to mega events. It provides insights for port city policy makers and mega-event promoters and highlights the potential challenges of societal and political change in the future.

Format: Hardback
Length: 236 pages
Publication date: 29 July 2022
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, the book explores 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, the spectacularization and commodification of local maritime culture and heritage, processes of cultural demaritimization and remaritimization of port cities.

The book aims to contribute to the bridging of port city and mega-event studies, offering valuable insights for port city policy makers and mega-event promoters. Drawing from a diverse range of international experiences, the book provides valuable lessons and best practices that can inform decision-making processes in these contexts. Moreover, the book raises important considerations about the potential challenges and uncertainties faced by culture- and event-led regeneration in the context of the current 'ontologically-insecure times.'

In conclusion, the book offers a comprehensive exploration of the complex dynamics between urban regeneration, mega events, and port city cultures. By shedding light on the underexplored mutual links between these three aspects, the book provides valuable insights for scholars, policymakers, and practitioners working in the fields of urban planning, tourism, and cultural heritage.

Weight: 620g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367761769