Urban renaissance

Urban Renaissance is a term used to describe the recent period of repopulation and regeneration of many British cities, including, Bristol, Cardiff, Glasgow, Leeds, Manchester, and parts of London after a period of suburbanisation during the mid-20th century. This was achieved through a number of initiative including tax incentives and the lifting of some planning restrictions, as well as positive state intervention encouraging business and residents back into city centre areas. It differs from the New Urbanism popular in North America, but could be considered the British equivalent.

Large developments such as the London Docklands, funded by the Corporation of London, have helped to encourage people back into the city. Urban Renaissance has also been assisted by gentrification, and has helped to combat Urban Decay.

Not all locations that claim an "urban renaissance" fully live up to the name. Many American cities have renaissance themed agency and building names that do not actually experience downtown renewal. A good example is the Renaissance Center and Detroit Renaissance Board in the city of Detroit, Michigan, where the intent by city leaders to create an urban renaissance may be stifled or thwarted. However, most American cities have seen at least a modest bounce in interest in core cities and older neighborhoods in recent years with a special emphasis on condominium projects, often in formerly non-residential structures.

External links

• Detroit Renaissance Board
• City of Rochester New York Renaissance plan
• Google Search for other cities touting an urban renaissance