Labour in the Suburbs: Political Change in Croydon During the Twentieth Century

This book is the first comprehensive economic, social, and political study of Croydon, a large London borough, from 1900 to the present day. It explores its development as an industrial suburb, post-industrial service economy, and ex-industrial suburb, and examines its civic identity and political representation. It will interest readers of modern British history, particularly those interested in electoral sociology, political representation, and suburbanization.

Format: Hardback
Length: 268 pages
Publication date: 04 May 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This book is a comprehensive exploration of the economic, social, and political landscape of Croydon, a bustling London suburb, spanning from 1900 to the present day. Croydon, one of the largest boroughs in London, has always been a diverse and mixed residential area, characterized by a blend of private homes and municipal housing. This unique mix has had a profound impact on the nature of its political representation, defying traditional notions of affluent middle-class suburbs or "bourgeois utopias." In terms of economics, Croydon has undergone a remarkable transformation. Initially an industrial suburb after World War I, it experienced rapid deindustrialization in the mid-20th century. However, it later underwent a remarkable post-industrial service economy transformation, driven by significant commercial and office redevelopment after 1960. This transition has made Croydon an ex-industrial suburb, similar to many other outer London areas and other peripheral metropolitan regions. While Croydon's civic identity as a formerly independent town on the outskirts of London remains somewhat unresolved, its political representatives are actively seeking to redefine the borough as a more independent and vibrant "Edge City." Author Michael Tichelar delves into this suburb by examining the broader suburban development of London, the shifting politics of Croydon, and the policy issues that have shaped its evolution over the past century.

Labour in the Suburbs is a valuable resource for both the general reader and students of modern British history, particularly those with a keen interest in electoral sociology, political representation, and suburbanization. It offers a comprehensive framework for understanding the process of suburbanization in the UK and internationally.

In conclusion, this book provides a rich and insightful examination of Croydon's economic, social, and political history, shedding light on its unique journey from an industrial suburb to a vibrant post-industrial service economy. It offers valuable insights into the complex dynamics of urbanization and the challenges faced by suburbs as they adapt to changing economic and social landscapes. Labour in the Suburbs is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the evolving nature of British cities and the role of suburbs in shaping their future.

Weight: 522g
Dimension: 157 x 235 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032206394