The Game of Urban Regeneration - Culture & Community in London 2012 and Berlin's Mediaspree

Francesca Weber-Newth's study examines the effects of urban regeneration on two neighborhoods, the 2012 Olympic park in London and the Mediaspree waterside development in Berlin. She argues that Olympic-led regeneration is not different from other forms of neoliberal urban development, and that the concepts of culture and community are used strategically to benefit some and detriment others.

Format: Hardback
Length: 300 pages
Publication date: 08 December 2021
Publisher: Transcript Verlag

Francesca Weber-Newth delves into the intricate dynamics of urban regeneration, examining two contrasting neighborhoods situated near significant redevelopment projects. Her study challenges the notion that Olympic-led regeneration stands apart from other forms of neoliberal urban development by closely examining how it unfolds on the ground. Drawing upon Pierre Bourdieu's perspective of the social world as a realm of competitive games, Weber-Newth analyzes the two neighborhoods to uncover the strategic deployment of culture and community concepts within the urban regeneration game. This analysis reveals the varying outcomes and impacts on different stakeholders, highlighting the complex interplay of power, resources, and social dynamics at play.

The 2012 Olympic park in London serves as a case study, representing a significant urban regeneration initiative driven by the Olympic Games. The park was designed to transform a previously neglected area into a vibrant and sustainable hub, with the promise of economic growth, improved infrastructure, and enhanced community facilities. However, Weber-Newth's analysis reveals that the experiences of residents in the Olympic park differ significantly from those in the surrounding neighborhoods. While the park has brought about some positive changes, such as increased investment and job opportunities, it has also led to rising property prices, gentrification, and displacement of long-term residents.

On the other hand, the Mediaspree waterside development in Berlin provides a contrasting perspective. This project aimed to revitalize a former industrial area along the river Spree, creating a mixed-use neighborhood with residential, commercial, and cultural spaces. Weber-Newth's study highlights how the developers of Mediaspree strategically employed cultural and community concepts to attract residents and investors. The development included public art installations, community gardens, and sustainable infrastructure, which aimed to create a sense of place and belonging. However, while the Mediaspree development has brought about economic growth and improved quality of life for some residents, it has also led to displacement and gentrification of low-income communities.

In conclusion, urban regeneration is a complex and multifaceted process that involves the strategic deployment of culture and community concepts. While it can bring about positive changes, such as economic growth and improved infrastructure, it can also have unintended consequences, such as displacement and gentrification. Understanding the mechanisms at play and ensuring that regeneration benefits all stakeholders is crucial for creating sustainable and inclusive cities.

Weight: 666g
Dimension: 226 x 147 x 15 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783837644869