Geography

Spoiled mixture: Where does state-led 'positive' gentrification end?

Document Type

Article

Abstract

Over the past decade, policy-makers have introduced social mixing initiatives that have sought to address urban social problems by deconcentrating poor and working-class communities through attracting the middle classes back to the city. Such a policy objective clearly 'smells like gentrification'. However, some commentators have warned against being critical of these policies, pointing out that the types of inner-city redevelopment generated by them is different from classical gentrification and that state-led gentrification offers benefits for many working-class communities. This paper draws upon research conducted in London to demonstrate how, despite having many commendable aspects, these policy agendas carry with them significant threats of displacement for lower-income communities. The paper also argues that, due to the mutating nature of gentrification, these threats are increasingly context-bound. In conclusion, the paper argues that those state mechanisms which might manage the unjust aspects of gentrification are inadequate. © 2008 Urban Studies Journal Limited.

Publication Title

Urban Studies

Publication Date

10-23-2008

Volume

45

Issue

12

First Page

2385

Last Page

2405

ISSN

0042-0980

DOI

10.1177/0042098008097105

Keywords

gentrification, urban renewal, social problems, government policy, London, England

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