The Right to a Decent House

This book explores the problems faced by inner-city working-class communities in 1970s Britain, particularly in the Gairbraid housing clearance area of Maryhill, Glasgow, and examines the policy of local authority re-housing. It analyzes the policy and practice of re-housing and demonstrates the efficacy of community action.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 170 pages
Publication date: 20 December 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Originally published in 1976, this book delves into the challenges faced by numerous inner-city working-class communities in Britain during the 1970s, with a specific focus on the Gairbraid housing clearance area in Maryhill, Glasgow. It provides a comprehensive examination of the local authority's re-housing policy, analyzing both its theoretical framework and practical implementation. The book also showcases the effectiveness of community action in addressing these issues, highlighting the role of grassroots organizations and individuals in shaping the outcomes of housing reform.

The Gairbraid housing clearance area in Maryhill, Glasgow, serves as a poignant example of the hardships endured by many inner-city working-class communities during the 1970s. The area was characterized by dilapidated buildings, poor sanitation, and limited access to essential services. The residents of Gairbraid faced numerous social and economic challenges, including unemployment, poverty, and poor health.

The local authority's decision to clear the Gairbraid housing area was driven by a combination of factors, including urban regeneration, public health concerns, and the need to improve housing standards. However, the process of eviction and re-housing was highly controversial, and it was met with resistance and opposition from the community.

The book explores the policy of local authority re-housing in detail, examining the theoretical frameworks and practical considerations that shaped the decision-making process. It also provides a critical analysis of the efficacy of community action in addressing the problems faced by Gairbraid residents. The author highlights the importance of grassroots organizations and individuals in advocating for their rights and in shaping the outcomes of housing reform.

One of the key themes of the book is the impact of social exclusion on the lives of Gairbraid residents. The author argues that the housing clearance area was not just a physical problem, but also a social and economic one. The residents of Gairbraid were marginalized from mainstream society, and they faced discrimination and prejudice in their daily lives.

The book also explores the role of the local authority in addressing the social and economic problems of Gairbraid residents. While the local authority had a responsibility to provide affordable housing, it was often unable to meet the needs of the community due to a lack of resources and political will. The author argues that the local authority's approach to re-housing was often paternalistic and top-down, and it failed to engage with the community in a meaningful way.

Despite the challenges faced by Gairbraid residents, the book also highlights the resilience and determination of the community. The residents of Gairbraid formed grassroots organizations and took action to improve their living conditions and to advocate for their rights. They organized protests, lobbied local politicians, and worked with community leaders to secure better housing and social services.

The book provides a valuable insight into the history of housing reform in Britain and into the challenges faced by inner-city working-class communities. It serves as a reminder of the importance of community action and grassroots organizing in shaping the outcomes of social and economic policy. The book also highlights the need for a more equitable and inclusive approach to housing reform, one that recognizes the diverse needs and experiences of different communities.

In conclusion, this book is a powerful and important contribution to the literature on housing reform and social exclusion. It provides a detailed analysis of the challenges faced by inner-city working-class communities in the 1970s and the role of community action in addressing these problems. The book serves as a reminder of the importance of grassroots organizing and the need for a more equitable and inclusive approach to housing reform.

Weight: 280g
Dimension: 154 x 234 x 14 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367682453