Urban Regeneration and Neoliberalism: The New Liverpool Home

This book explores the concept of 'home' in Liverpool over phases of regeneration following the Second World War, using qualitative research in the oral history tradition. It examines how the shift towards city centre-focused redevelopment and 'event-led initiatives' has implications for residents' conceptualizations of 'home' and how this shift has produced changes in the ways they identify with neighborhoods and the city centre.

Format: Hardback
Length: 228 pages
Publication date: 30 October 2020
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This captivating book delves into the intricate concept of 'home' in Liverpool, spanning various phases of regeneration following the Second World War. Through qualitative research in the oral history tradition, the author explores what they perceive as 'forward-facing regeneration' in the period up to the 1980s and the subsequent neoliberal regeneration interventions that prioritize the past from the 1980s to the present. The author meticulously examines how the shift towards city center-focused redevelopment and 'event-led initiatives' has shaped the way residents interpret their notions of 'home.' They demonstrate how this shift in regeneration focus, discourse, and practice, away from Liverpool's neighborhood districts and towards the city center, has resulted in profound changes in how residents identify with both neighborhoods and the city center. The latter now holds greater prominence in their sense of belonging.

Employing Pierre Bourdieu's concepts of habitus and field as powerful frameworks for understanding diverse perspectives on 'home' and the shifts from localized to globalized views, this book holds immense appeal to scholars and enthusiasts interested in urban sociology, regeneration, geography, sociology, home cultures, and cities.

The book unfolds in a structured and organized manner, dividing its content into distinct chapters that provide a comprehensive exploration of the topic. Each chapter serves as a building block, contributing to a holistic understanding of the evolving concept of 'home' in Liverpool.

In the introductory chapter, the author sets the stage for the study by providing a historical backdrop of Liverpool's post-war regeneration efforts. They highlight the city's challenges and opportunities, emphasizing the role of government policies and urban planning in shaping the urban landscape. This chapter lays the foundation for the subsequent chapters, setting the context for the analysis and discussion.

The following chapter delves into the concept of 'forward-facing regeneration' in Liverpool during the period up to the 1980s. The author explores how residents and local communities actively engaged in shaping the city's future, emphasizing the importance of community participation and social inclusion. They highlight the positive outcomes of this approach, such as the creation of new public spaces, improved infrastructure, and enhanced cultural vibrancy. This chapter sheds light on the early efforts to create a sense of belonging and identity within Liverpool's neighborhoods.

The third chapter focuses on the neoliberal regeneration interventions that began to take shape in Liverpool from the 1980s to the present. The author examines how these interventions have influenced the way. The author explores how these interventions have influenced the ways residents identify with neighborhoods and the city center. They highlight the negative consequences of these interventions, such as the displacement of local communities, the erosion of social cohesion, and the prioritization of economic growth over social well-being. This chapter sheds light on the challenges faced by residents and local communities in the face of neoliberal regeneration.

In the subsequent chapter, the author examines the implications of the shift towards city center-focused redevelopment and 'event-led initiatives' on the conceptualization of 'home.' They explore how residents make sense of their changing surroundings, considering the physical, social, and cultural aspects of their homes. The author emphasizes the importance of place attachment and the sense of belonging that comes with it. They discuss how the emphasis on the city center has led to a detachment from local neighborhoods and a loss of community identity. This chapter provides valuable insights into the emotional and psychological impact of these changes on residents.

The final chapter summarizes the key findings and conclusions of the book. The author reflects on the broader implications of their research and offers recommendations for policymakers, urban planners, and community organizations. They advocate for a more balanced approach to regeneration that considers the needs and aspirations of local communities and seeks to preserve the unique character and identity of neighborhoods.

Throughout the book, the author employs a rich and evocative writing style that captivates the reader's attention. They use vivid anecdotes and personal stories to illustrate their points, making the research accessible and relatable to a wide audience. The use of visual aids, such as maps and photographs, further enhances the reader's understanding of the spatial and temporal dynamics of Liverpool's regeneration.

In conclusion, this book is a valuable contribution to the field of urban sociology, regeneration, and geography. It offers a comprehensive and nuanced analysis of the evolving concept of 'home' in Liverpool, shedding light on the complex interplay between social, economic, and cultural factors. Through its qualitative research approach and interdisciplinary lens, the book provides valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities faced by residents and local communities in the process of urban transformation. This book will appeal to scholars, researchers, policymakers, and anyone interested in understanding the dynamics of cities and the role of home in shaping urban landscapes.

Weight: 496g
Dimension: 162 x 241 x 21 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367861759