New approach is needed to revive our cities
Author: Alexandra JonesDate: 16/12/2010
Publication: Yorkshire Post
Going for private sector employment growth has been the key mantra of the coalition since it has been in power. As the Government deals with the deficit, the jury is still out on whether enough jobs can be created to fill the gap left by reduced employment opportunities in those cities hit hardest by industrial decline and most dependent on public sector jobs.
Recognition of the additional economic and social challenges faced by post industrial cities is long standing. Over the past decade, national government and city leaders have sought to address this in a number of ways. Central to this was physical regeneration and property development.
Derelict industrial sites and vacant housing in declining neighbourhoods across the country, including in Leeds, Sheffield and Doncaster, have been cleared, with new housing, offices, science parks and retail developments built in their space.
The hope has often been that property development would spark economic growth in any urban area or neighbourhood by creating high quality space that would pull in the businesses, people and investment desired.
The Labour Government used targets to support this approach and regional development agencies to deliver growth. The coalition has abolished RDAs, established local enterprise partnerships, and is relying on incentives like the new homes bonus to encourage all cities or neighbourhoods to expand. But the consistent theme for both is the emphasis on growth for all, rather than a more tailored approach reflecting local economies and their potential.
In a week in which a very tough financial settlement was announced, it is clear that the approach to physical regeneration needs to change. So the question is: can cities 'build' an economic recovery?
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