UK spatial planning guidance now recognises the importance of engaging stakeholders in appraisal ... more UK spatial planning guidance now recognises the importance of engaging stakeholders in appraisal processes at an early stage in the plan-making process. Regional Planning Authorities are required to consult proactively with a wide range of stakeholders on both the development of planning policy and the sustainability appraisal of that policy. However, there is no clear indication as to how they might go about this process, other than to confront the various stakeholders with a Sustainability Appraisal Report. Participation in Sustainability Appraisal therefore still relies on reaction to a technical appraisal of an existing plan-and in this situation stakeholders might lack the incentive to participate. More thoughtful ways need to be devised to involve people in the sustainability debate-so that spatial policy more accurately reflects their knowledge and aspirations. The focus of this paper is to investigate ways in which Sustainability Appraisal of spatial plans can be made more accessible and transparent within the context of wider governance mechanisms. Of particular interest is the Public Examination of a Regional Spatial Strategy. The following research questions attempt to address the gaps in knowledge: 1. How can the quality and extent of engagement of stakeholders be improved, so that policy approaches delivered via Sustainability Appraisal more effectively reflect their ambitions, whilst continuing to meet the objectives for sustainability ? 2. How can the sustainability issues that might form the basis of discussions in a proactive engagement of interests be identified, and how can these issues be framed within a contextual setting that is meaningful to a range of stakeholders ? 3. What mediatory techniques can be identified to accommodate the various frames of reference that arise in potentially conflict situations ?
Journal of Environmental Planning and Management, Apr 27, 2007
This research has demonstrated that even in a small urbanised country like Britain, communities c... more This research has demonstrated that even in a small urbanised country like Britain, communities can still be remote. The paper analyses the nature of remote settlements and suggests that beyond the rural idyll, there are deprived communities. In order to obtain real data, a study area in the North Pennines was selected. The types of remote communities were evident throughout the study area and one of each type was selected for further study. It became clear that villages with an industrial base had most potential, due to high energy demand, vulnerability and community involvement. A village with a high measure of multiple deprivation and suffering from fuel poverty was chosen for a more detailed investigation. Energy demand profiles were developed and candidate technologies nominated. The latter were tested by filters that assessed fitness for application, robustness and autonomy. The most appropriate combinations of technologies were proposed. The residents and their community representatives were involved in the process and recognised the benefits of the proposals to themselves and others.
Journal of construction in developing countries, 2013
Despite years of International Aid, as recently as late 2010, Africa was seeking a 20% increase i... more Despite years of International Aid, as recently as late 2010, Africa was seeking a 20% increase in funding for its poor countries. In 2002, Nigeria's Ebonyi State became part of a Community Urban Development Project and in 2005 joined the Community-based Poverty Reduction Project, both funded by the World Bank. Ebonyi focussed all its aid on three communities in its capital Abakiliki. They were chosen because they exhibited the lowest level of social, political and economic status, and the highest levels of physical decay; following a survey in 2001. One of the three communities, Kpirikpiri, was surveyed again in 2010 as part of this research, and in 2011 a sample of its residents engaged in focus groups to determine how their lives had improved as a result of this funding. It was shocking to discover that the community still suffered from all five housing deprivations used by UN-Habitat to define slum conditions. Yet, the potential of these residents is high. The challenge is how to unlock their potential and establish community organisations that can apply for their own funding; develop a local economy through activities such as home-based enterprises; negotiate with landlords; and start to improve their environmental conditions.
Proceedings of the Institution of Civil Engineers, Jun 1, 2010
UK spatial planning guidance now recognises the importance of engaging stakeholders in appraisal ... more UK spatial planning guidance now recognises the importance of engaging stakeholders in appraisal processes at an early stage in the plan-making process. Regional Planning Authorities are required to consult with a wide range of stakeholders on both the development of planning policy and the sustainability appraisal of that policy. However, there is no clear indication as to how they might go about this process, other than to confront the various stakeholders with a Sustainability Appraisal Report. Participation in Sustainability Appraisal therefore still relies on reaction to a technical appraisal of an existing planand in this situation stakeholders might lack the incentive to participate. More thoughtful ways need to be devised to involve people in the sustainability debateso that spatial policy more accurately reflects their knowledge and aspirations. The focus of this paper is to investigate ways in which Sustainability Appraisal of spatial plans can be made more accessible and transparent within the context of wider governance mechanisms. Of particular interest is the Public Examination of a Regional Spatial Strategy. A number of questions arise as to how engagement with stakeholders can be achieved and their knowledge elicited in a proactive manner. 1 Note that Scotland has opted to confine the mandatory use of SEA to the assessment of environmental effects only (Jackson & Illsley, 2005).
Development of the Architectural Design Quality Evaluation Tool was based on a live research proj... more Development of the Architectural Design Quality Evaluation Tool was based on a live research project with a Metropolitan Council in the North of England. The aim was to improve the quality of design in residential sheltered housing, procured through the Private Finance Initiative; and has been applied to a programme that will see the replacement of the Council's entire sheltered housing stock. The Research Team worked alongside the Local Authority Project Team, and together they developed and refined the Tool through the competitive dialogue phase of the PFI programme. The Tool has two functions. It is a substantial part of the assessment process, which selected the preferred bidding consortium from the original six bidders, through a series of stages. However, it was also directed at improving the quality of all the submitted designs through an iterative process. There are several mechanisms available for evaluating the performance attributes of buildings and these are important, but few also tackle the less tangible amenity attributes, which are vital to the feeling of home. This Tool emphasises the amenity attributes without neglecting performance. Samples are illustrated in the paper but the complete Tool can be found on the Homes and Communities Agency website under Design and Sustainability at http://www.homesandcommunities.co.uk/architecture-design-quality-evaluationtool
Digital technologies have been introduced to students of architecture for over two decades and at... more Digital technologies have been introduced to students of architecture for over two decades and at present it could be argued that students are producing some of the highest quality designs, and some of the most interesting forms ever to come from University Schools. The value of computer aided design (CAD) is also being demonstrated in architectural practice, with high profile, large budget, bespoke and iconic buildings designed by internationally renowned architects. This paper reviews the changing patterns of architectural design education and considers the contribution digital technologies could make to buildings with more commonplace uses. The study offers a perspective on different kinds of buildings and considers the influence that emerging technologies are having on building form. It outlines digital technologies, alongside students' application for architectural design and considers the role they could play in the future, in developing a shared architectural language. It is suggested that some of the biggest opportunities for future research will be in the design of external spaces, often a neglected part of architectural design education.
The origins and legacy of Ryder and Yates's Kenton Bar Estate, Newcastle upon Tyne, are examined ... more The origins and legacy of Ryder and Yates's Kenton Bar Estate, Newcastle upon Tyne, are examined as an innovative outcome of the relationship between art and architecture.
During the latter part of the 20 th century, while a small number of exemplar city centre squares... more During the latter part of the 20 th century, while a small number of exemplar city centre squares continued to be attractive places, the vast majority acquired either an image of empty spaces or an unattractive picture as traffic islands. This was emphasised by the decline of traditional community activities and the perception of comfort generated by internalising external space; coupled with a commodifying of cities in which they were merely viewed as commercial and retail opportunities. Communities need public spaces as places for assembly. They are the physical manifestation that each community is coherent and vibrant. Increasingly it is being recognised that identity and place have enormous roles in reinforcing society. The re-introduction of public squares is part of reversing the erosion of the public sector and the public realm, and reclaiming city centres from private interests for the benefit of communities. Criteria for comfortable external spaces have been researched, and these recognise the differences between northern and southern Europe. The most recent advances are in the simulation of city centre design; which includes geometry, uses, pedestrian movement and environmental conditions. There is confidence to be gained from visualisation of how squares will look, feel and be used; and will make a real contribution to sustainable urban design.
is a fascinating topic for debate. Unfortunately, such debates happen ard Graduate School of Desi... more is a fascinating topic for debate. Unfortunately, such debates happen ard Graduate School of Design, shortly before its landmark conference on 1956. This book includes extracts from the conference before going on to reflect upon them. As Charles Waldheim explainsthe contributors discuss past, present and future directions through a series of essays that offer significant and substantive knowledge. Depending on your point of view, the richness or confusion in urban design flows from it not being a specific discipline. Alex Krieger sets out ten interpretations of urban design and then states that the list is not exhaustive and other activities could be added. Jonathan Barnett reduces the number to three components. One focus is the public realm. There seems to be a persistent fear of designing empty public spaces that are devoid of life. Ever since the first
Most populous of all African nations, Nigeria has one of the highest urban growth rates in the wo... more Most populous of all African nations, Nigeria has one of the highest urban growth rates in the world but with associated rates of poverty. Approximately half of the total population in Nigeria resides in urban areas, and projections indicate that more than 60 per cent will live in urban centres by the year 2025. Hence, rapid processes of urbanisation, linked with poverty, offers distinct challenges for the contemporary and future society. With such a high percentage of unemployment, the establishment of small scale, low cost businesses could provide an opportunity for the urban poor, especially those habiting informal settlements. However, the prevalent culture in Nigeria is to seek employment either in large government or private organisations. Unfortunately, the existing public and private workplaces have not been able to expand to provide employment for the growing population, which has mainly resulted from rural-urban migration. Home-based enterprises have played a major role in developing low-income communities around the world. However, in certain slum areas in Nigeria, there seem to be barriers to this kind of development. Drawing on recent empirical studies conducted by the authors into Nigerian informal settlements, this paper suggests that there is a need for a more robust approach towards the re-orientation of the unemployed and lower-income groups towards entrepreneurship. It argues for more effective capacity-building among communities, as well as greater security in housing through tenancy agreements, and access to water and electricity; which could all encourage the establishment of home-based enterprises as the first step towards an entrepreneurial society. Such an approach would suggest that the particularities of places are given due attention, which challenges some of the presuppositions of place-blind methods.
This paper contends that the concept of a master plan is deeply embedded in both the theory and p... more This paper contends that the concept of a master plan is deeply embedded in both the theory and practice of town planning in Britain. From the middle of the 20 th Century numerous new towns and comprehensive development areas of post war Britain were master planned in an attempt to prescribe land use patterns. However, the process of generating and implementing these ambitious, large-scale and comprehensive master plans became increasingly difficult in the face of public opposition and erosion of trust in experts; the decline in public sector intervention and the collapse of the property market. As a result, the 1970s and early 1980s saw an unremitting decline in the concept of the master plan as a tool for the development and redevelopment of British cities. Yet, in the last twenty years there has been a revival in the use of the term but in dramatically altered circumstances as re-assertion of the power and influence of the private sector has changed the nature of these plans. With reference to recent master planning initiatives, this paper explores the changing shape and character of the master planning process in Britain; and assesses if it is an appropriate tool for the 21 st Century.
Toonsformation: skateboarders' renegotiation of city rights Lee Pugalis, Jon Swords, Michael Jeff... more Toonsformation: skateboarders' renegotiation of city rights Lee Pugalis, Jon Swords, Michael Jeffries and Bob Giddings <1> Introduction We live in an era when ideals of human rights have moved centre stage both politically and ethically. A great deal of energy is expended in promoting their significance for the construction of a better world. But for the most part the concepts circulating do not fundamentally challenge hegemonic liberal and neoliberal market logics, or the dominant modes of legality and state action. We live, after all, in a world in which the rights of private property and the profit rate trump all other notions of rights (Harvey, 2008: 23). According to scholars such as Harvey, the rights of citizens are being displaced by the rights of the consumer. The renegotiation of rights can be related to the continuous process of spatial capitalist restructuring, which informs and is informed by social, cultural and democratic challenges including calls for 'justice' and 'fairness', however understood and interpreted. Urban activism has been foregrounded in the global public consciousness, with nok events including the uprisings culminating in what is now referred to as the Arab Spring and anti-capitalist demonstrations initiated in New York ('Occupy Wall Street'), which subsequently spread around the world ('Occupy Movement'). 1 The causes are complex and various, and the objectives diffuse, including revolts against political oppression, social exclusion, and the tyranny of economic liberalism and predatory capitalism. Such movements are helping to reframe the rights of citizens and reenergise debates, particularly at the city
Contemporary issues in entrepreneurship research, Aug 8, 2014
Abstract Purpose Across the global community the eradication of slums has been identified as a ke... more Abstract Purpose Across the global community the eradication of slums has been identified as a key project as part of the broader goal to eradicate poverty. Entrepreneurial efforts are viewed as a key means of ‘lifting’ people from poverty. Through a focus on Nigeria, this chapter examines slum upgrading programmes. The primary aim is to identify the opportunities and barriers facing inhabitants of informal settlements to realising entrepreneurial synergies that can occur in particular places. Methodology/approach A case study examination of the Kpirikpiri informal settlement in Ebonyi State, Nigeria was conducted that utilised a mixed-method approach. The research passed through three key phases. The first phase comprised a literature survey and review. The second phase involved a household survey to gather some baseline socio-economic and physical data that helped to fill the void of basic data. A total of 142 respondents participated in the survey, representing 10% of the total number of households in the area. The third phase involved the collection of qualitative data through focus group discussions and individual interviews. Findings Slum dwellers have skills and formal education equivalent to those in the Global North. Nevertheless, Nigerians tend to view entrepreneurial activities as secondary to other forms of employment, especially positions in the public sector. Paradoxically, slum dwellers place little trust in state authorities. Security of tenure is a major barrier to expanding entrepreneurial activities, as many landlords are reluctant to permit tenants to operate home-based enterprises, which is often a neglected element of place-based development strategies. Research and practical implications The chapter demonstrates the need for basic socio-economic datasets alongside user perspectives to shape the efficacy of development initiatives. In the case of Kpirikpiri, slum improvement programmes may have benefited from parallel educational programmes that expound the virtues of entrepreneurialism and concomitant training schemes, improved governance open to local social networks, less emphasis on physical upgrading of some forms of infrastructure and greater attention towards improving security of tenure as a path towards generating more home-based enterprises. Originality/value of paper The entrepreneurial potential of the inhabitants of informal settlements is under-acknowledged in ‘upgrading’ interventions and also underplayed in the research literature. The chapter draws some much needed critical attention to the opportunities and barriers facing inhabitants of informal settlements, which helps to challenge some dominant transnational policy assumptions.
By 2050s the UK is expected to experience: increase in average summer mean temperatures (predicte... more By 2050s the UK is expected to experience: increase in average summer mean temperatures (predicted to rise by upto 3.5 o C) and frequency of heat-waves / very hot days; and increases in winter precipitation (of up to 20%) and possibly more frequent severe storms. Also, in 2050s approximately 70% of UK buildings will have been built before 2010, which due to aforesaid climate change factors will suffer from various types of obsolescence – including energy related obsolescence. Thus, if sustainable built environment is to accommodate climate change and the investment in these buildings (which was approximately £129 billions in 2007 in the UK alone) is to be protected, action needs to be taken now to assess the vulnerability and resilience of the existing UK built environment; and plan adaptation / mitigation interventions, that allow to continue to support the quality of life and well-being of UK citizens. The situation with other countries around the globe is not dissimilar, although there may be some variation in nature and quantity of climate change, and the way climate change impacts manifest themselves in relation to the resources and governance of a given country. Failure to act now will mean that the costs of tackling climate change in future will be much higher, jeopardising not only environmental but also economic sustainability. In view of these concerns, this paper will focus on obsolescence that is associated with energy and climate change. The climate change factors that shall be specifically covered include global warming, flooding, carbon emissions, carbon cut targets, environmental legislation and building regulations. Obsolescence types are categorised into direct and indirect obsolescence groups. Moreover, although the paper will mention both generation and consumption of energy, the later shall be more specifically addressed due to accelerating demand of power as well as pressures for efficient energy consumption in buildings to cut carbon emissions. Finally, in light of to date literature review, the paper will emphasise requirement of a fundamental framework for identification and categorisation of energy related obsolescence in the built environment, which shall attract interests for further investigation from both researchers and practitioners.
UK spatial planning guidance now recognises the importance of engaging stakeholders in appraisal ... more UK spatial planning guidance now recognises the importance of engaging stakeholders in appraisal processes at an early stage in the plan-making process. Regional Planning Authorities are required to consult proactively with a wide range of stakeholders on both the development of planning policy and the sustainability appraisal of that policy. However, there is no clear indication as to how they might go about this process, other than to confront the various stakeholders with a Sustainability Appraisal Report. Participation in Sustainability Appraisal therefore still relies on reaction to a technical appraisal of an existing plan-and in this situation stakeholders might lack the incentive to participate. More thoughtful ways need to be devised to involve people in the sustainability debate-so that spatial policy more accurately reflects their knowledge and aspirations. The focus of this paper is to investigate ways in which Sustainability Appraisal of spatial plans can be made more accessible and transparent within the context of wider governance mechanisms. Of particular interest is the Public Examination of a Regional Spatial Strategy. The following research questions attempt to address the gaps in knowledge: 1. How can the quality and extent of engagement of stakeholders be improved, so that policy approaches delivered via Sustainability Appraisal more effectively reflect their ambitions, whilst continuing to meet the objectives for sustainability ? 2. How can the sustainability issues that might form the basis of discussions in a proactive engagement of interests be identified, and how can these issues be framed within a contextual setting that is meaningful to a range of stakeholders ? 3. What mediatory techniques can be identified to accommodate the various frames of reference that arise in potentially conflict situations ?
Journal of Environmental Planning and Management, Apr 27, 2007
This research has demonstrated that even in a small urbanised country like Britain, communities c... more This research has demonstrated that even in a small urbanised country like Britain, communities can still be remote. The paper analyses the nature of remote settlements and suggests that beyond the rural idyll, there are deprived communities. In order to obtain real data, a study area in the North Pennines was selected. The types of remote communities were evident throughout the study area and one of each type was selected for further study. It became clear that villages with an industrial base had most potential, due to high energy demand, vulnerability and community involvement. A village with a high measure of multiple deprivation and suffering from fuel poverty was chosen for a more detailed investigation. Energy demand profiles were developed and candidate technologies nominated. The latter were tested by filters that assessed fitness for application, robustness and autonomy. The most appropriate combinations of technologies were proposed. The residents and their community representatives were involved in the process and recognised the benefits of the proposals to themselves and others.
Journal of construction in developing countries, 2013
Despite years of International Aid, as recently as late 2010, Africa was seeking a 20% increase i... more Despite years of International Aid, as recently as late 2010, Africa was seeking a 20% increase in funding for its poor countries. In 2002, Nigeria's Ebonyi State became part of a Community Urban Development Project and in 2005 joined the Community-based Poverty Reduction Project, both funded by the World Bank. Ebonyi focussed all its aid on three communities in its capital Abakiliki. They were chosen because they exhibited the lowest level of social, political and economic status, and the highest levels of physical decay; following a survey in 2001. One of the three communities, Kpirikpiri, was surveyed again in 2010 as part of this research, and in 2011 a sample of its residents engaged in focus groups to determine how their lives had improved as a result of this funding. It was shocking to discover that the community still suffered from all five housing deprivations used by UN-Habitat to define slum conditions. Yet, the potential of these residents is high. The challenge is how to unlock their potential and establish community organisations that can apply for their own funding; develop a local economy through activities such as home-based enterprises; negotiate with landlords; and start to improve their environmental conditions.
Proceedings of the Institution of Civil Engineers, Jun 1, 2010
UK spatial planning guidance now recognises the importance of engaging stakeholders in appraisal ... more UK spatial planning guidance now recognises the importance of engaging stakeholders in appraisal processes at an early stage in the plan-making process. Regional Planning Authorities are required to consult with a wide range of stakeholders on both the development of planning policy and the sustainability appraisal of that policy. However, there is no clear indication as to how they might go about this process, other than to confront the various stakeholders with a Sustainability Appraisal Report. Participation in Sustainability Appraisal therefore still relies on reaction to a technical appraisal of an existing planand in this situation stakeholders might lack the incentive to participate. More thoughtful ways need to be devised to involve people in the sustainability debateso that spatial policy more accurately reflects their knowledge and aspirations. The focus of this paper is to investigate ways in which Sustainability Appraisal of spatial plans can be made more accessible and transparent within the context of wider governance mechanisms. Of particular interest is the Public Examination of a Regional Spatial Strategy. A number of questions arise as to how engagement with stakeholders can be achieved and their knowledge elicited in a proactive manner. 1 Note that Scotland has opted to confine the mandatory use of SEA to the assessment of environmental effects only (Jackson & Illsley, 2005).
Development of the Architectural Design Quality Evaluation Tool was based on a live research proj... more Development of the Architectural Design Quality Evaluation Tool was based on a live research project with a Metropolitan Council in the North of England. The aim was to improve the quality of design in residential sheltered housing, procured through the Private Finance Initiative; and has been applied to a programme that will see the replacement of the Council's entire sheltered housing stock. The Research Team worked alongside the Local Authority Project Team, and together they developed and refined the Tool through the competitive dialogue phase of the PFI programme. The Tool has two functions. It is a substantial part of the assessment process, which selected the preferred bidding consortium from the original six bidders, through a series of stages. However, it was also directed at improving the quality of all the submitted designs through an iterative process. There are several mechanisms available for evaluating the performance attributes of buildings and these are important, but few also tackle the less tangible amenity attributes, which are vital to the feeling of home. This Tool emphasises the amenity attributes without neglecting performance. Samples are illustrated in the paper but the complete Tool can be found on the Homes and Communities Agency website under Design and Sustainability at http://www.homesandcommunities.co.uk/architecture-design-quality-evaluationtool
Digital technologies have been introduced to students of architecture for over two decades and at... more Digital technologies have been introduced to students of architecture for over two decades and at present it could be argued that students are producing some of the highest quality designs, and some of the most interesting forms ever to come from University Schools. The value of computer aided design (CAD) is also being demonstrated in architectural practice, with high profile, large budget, bespoke and iconic buildings designed by internationally renowned architects. This paper reviews the changing patterns of architectural design education and considers the contribution digital technologies could make to buildings with more commonplace uses. The study offers a perspective on different kinds of buildings and considers the influence that emerging technologies are having on building form. It outlines digital technologies, alongside students' application for architectural design and considers the role they could play in the future, in developing a shared architectural language. It is suggested that some of the biggest opportunities for future research will be in the design of external spaces, often a neglected part of architectural design education.
The origins and legacy of Ryder and Yates's Kenton Bar Estate, Newcastle upon Tyne, are examined ... more The origins and legacy of Ryder and Yates's Kenton Bar Estate, Newcastle upon Tyne, are examined as an innovative outcome of the relationship between art and architecture.
During the latter part of the 20 th century, while a small number of exemplar city centre squares... more During the latter part of the 20 th century, while a small number of exemplar city centre squares continued to be attractive places, the vast majority acquired either an image of empty spaces or an unattractive picture as traffic islands. This was emphasised by the decline of traditional community activities and the perception of comfort generated by internalising external space; coupled with a commodifying of cities in which they were merely viewed as commercial and retail opportunities. Communities need public spaces as places for assembly. They are the physical manifestation that each community is coherent and vibrant. Increasingly it is being recognised that identity and place have enormous roles in reinforcing society. The re-introduction of public squares is part of reversing the erosion of the public sector and the public realm, and reclaiming city centres from private interests for the benefit of communities. Criteria for comfortable external spaces have been researched, and these recognise the differences between northern and southern Europe. The most recent advances are in the simulation of city centre design; which includes geometry, uses, pedestrian movement and environmental conditions. There is confidence to be gained from visualisation of how squares will look, feel and be used; and will make a real contribution to sustainable urban design.
is a fascinating topic for debate. Unfortunately, such debates happen ard Graduate School of Desi... more is a fascinating topic for debate. Unfortunately, such debates happen ard Graduate School of Design, shortly before its landmark conference on 1956. This book includes extracts from the conference before going on to reflect upon them. As Charles Waldheim explainsthe contributors discuss past, present and future directions through a series of essays that offer significant and substantive knowledge. Depending on your point of view, the richness or confusion in urban design flows from it not being a specific discipline. Alex Krieger sets out ten interpretations of urban design and then states that the list is not exhaustive and other activities could be added. Jonathan Barnett reduces the number to three components. One focus is the public realm. There seems to be a persistent fear of designing empty public spaces that are devoid of life. Ever since the first
Most populous of all African nations, Nigeria has one of the highest urban growth rates in the wo... more Most populous of all African nations, Nigeria has one of the highest urban growth rates in the world but with associated rates of poverty. Approximately half of the total population in Nigeria resides in urban areas, and projections indicate that more than 60 per cent will live in urban centres by the year 2025. Hence, rapid processes of urbanisation, linked with poverty, offers distinct challenges for the contemporary and future society. With such a high percentage of unemployment, the establishment of small scale, low cost businesses could provide an opportunity for the urban poor, especially those habiting informal settlements. However, the prevalent culture in Nigeria is to seek employment either in large government or private organisations. Unfortunately, the existing public and private workplaces have not been able to expand to provide employment for the growing population, which has mainly resulted from rural-urban migration. Home-based enterprises have played a major role in developing low-income communities around the world. However, in certain slum areas in Nigeria, there seem to be barriers to this kind of development. Drawing on recent empirical studies conducted by the authors into Nigerian informal settlements, this paper suggests that there is a need for a more robust approach towards the re-orientation of the unemployed and lower-income groups towards entrepreneurship. It argues for more effective capacity-building among communities, as well as greater security in housing through tenancy agreements, and access to water and electricity; which could all encourage the establishment of home-based enterprises as the first step towards an entrepreneurial society. Such an approach would suggest that the particularities of places are given due attention, which challenges some of the presuppositions of place-blind methods.
This paper contends that the concept of a master plan is deeply embedded in both the theory and p... more This paper contends that the concept of a master plan is deeply embedded in both the theory and practice of town planning in Britain. From the middle of the 20 th Century numerous new towns and comprehensive development areas of post war Britain were master planned in an attempt to prescribe land use patterns. However, the process of generating and implementing these ambitious, large-scale and comprehensive master plans became increasingly difficult in the face of public opposition and erosion of trust in experts; the decline in public sector intervention and the collapse of the property market. As a result, the 1970s and early 1980s saw an unremitting decline in the concept of the master plan as a tool for the development and redevelopment of British cities. Yet, in the last twenty years there has been a revival in the use of the term but in dramatically altered circumstances as re-assertion of the power and influence of the private sector has changed the nature of these plans. With reference to recent master planning initiatives, this paper explores the changing shape and character of the master planning process in Britain; and assesses if it is an appropriate tool for the 21 st Century.
Toonsformation: skateboarders' renegotiation of city rights Lee Pugalis, Jon Swords, Michael Jeff... more Toonsformation: skateboarders' renegotiation of city rights Lee Pugalis, Jon Swords, Michael Jeffries and Bob Giddings <1> Introduction We live in an era when ideals of human rights have moved centre stage both politically and ethically. A great deal of energy is expended in promoting their significance for the construction of a better world. But for the most part the concepts circulating do not fundamentally challenge hegemonic liberal and neoliberal market logics, or the dominant modes of legality and state action. We live, after all, in a world in which the rights of private property and the profit rate trump all other notions of rights (Harvey, 2008: 23). According to scholars such as Harvey, the rights of citizens are being displaced by the rights of the consumer. The renegotiation of rights can be related to the continuous process of spatial capitalist restructuring, which informs and is informed by social, cultural and democratic challenges including calls for 'justice' and 'fairness', however understood and interpreted. Urban activism has been foregrounded in the global public consciousness, with nok events including the uprisings culminating in what is now referred to as the Arab Spring and anti-capitalist demonstrations initiated in New York ('Occupy Wall Street'), which subsequently spread around the world ('Occupy Movement'). 1 The causes are complex and various, and the objectives diffuse, including revolts against political oppression, social exclusion, and the tyranny of economic liberalism and predatory capitalism. Such movements are helping to reframe the rights of citizens and reenergise debates, particularly at the city
Contemporary issues in entrepreneurship research, Aug 8, 2014
Abstract Purpose Across the global community the eradication of slums has been identified as a ke... more Abstract Purpose Across the global community the eradication of slums has been identified as a key project as part of the broader goal to eradicate poverty. Entrepreneurial efforts are viewed as a key means of ‘lifting’ people from poverty. Through a focus on Nigeria, this chapter examines slum upgrading programmes. The primary aim is to identify the opportunities and barriers facing inhabitants of informal settlements to realising entrepreneurial synergies that can occur in particular places. Methodology/approach A case study examination of the Kpirikpiri informal settlement in Ebonyi State, Nigeria was conducted that utilised a mixed-method approach. The research passed through three key phases. The first phase comprised a literature survey and review. The second phase involved a household survey to gather some baseline socio-economic and physical data that helped to fill the void of basic data. A total of 142 respondents participated in the survey, representing 10% of the total number of households in the area. The third phase involved the collection of qualitative data through focus group discussions and individual interviews. Findings Slum dwellers have skills and formal education equivalent to those in the Global North. Nevertheless, Nigerians tend to view entrepreneurial activities as secondary to other forms of employment, especially positions in the public sector. Paradoxically, slum dwellers place little trust in state authorities. Security of tenure is a major barrier to expanding entrepreneurial activities, as many landlords are reluctant to permit tenants to operate home-based enterprises, which is often a neglected element of place-based development strategies. Research and practical implications The chapter demonstrates the need for basic socio-economic datasets alongside user perspectives to shape the efficacy of development initiatives. In the case of Kpirikpiri, slum improvement programmes may have benefited from parallel educational programmes that expound the virtues of entrepreneurialism and concomitant training schemes, improved governance open to local social networks, less emphasis on physical upgrading of some forms of infrastructure and greater attention towards improving security of tenure as a path towards generating more home-based enterprises. Originality/value of paper The entrepreneurial potential of the inhabitants of informal settlements is under-acknowledged in ‘upgrading’ interventions and also underplayed in the research literature. The chapter draws some much needed critical attention to the opportunities and barriers facing inhabitants of informal settlements, which helps to challenge some dominant transnational policy assumptions.
By 2050s the UK is expected to experience: increase in average summer mean temperatures (predicte... more By 2050s the UK is expected to experience: increase in average summer mean temperatures (predicted to rise by upto 3.5 o C) and frequency of heat-waves / very hot days; and increases in winter precipitation (of up to 20%) and possibly more frequent severe storms. Also, in 2050s approximately 70% of UK buildings will have been built before 2010, which due to aforesaid climate change factors will suffer from various types of obsolescence – including energy related obsolescence. Thus, if sustainable built environment is to accommodate climate change and the investment in these buildings (which was approximately £129 billions in 2007 in the UK alone) is to be protected, action needs to be taken now to assess the vulnerability and resilience of the existing UK built environment; and plan adaptation / mitigation interventions, that allow to continue to support the quality of life and well-being of UK citizens. The situation with other countries around the globe is not dissimilar, although there may be some variation in nature and quantity of climate change, and the way climate change impacts manifest themselves in relation to the resources and governance of a given country. Failure to act now will mean that the costs of tackling climate change in future will be much higher, jeopardising not only environmental but also economic sustainability. In view of these concerns, this paper will focus on obsolescence that is associated with energy and climate change. The climate change factors that shall be specifically covered include global warming, flooding, carbon emissions, carbon cut targets, environmental legislation and building regulations. Obsolescence types are categorised into direct and indirect obsolescence groups. Moreover, although the paper will mention both generation and consumption of energy, the later shall be more specifically addressed due to accelerating demand of power as well as pressures for efficient energy consumption in buildings to cut carbon emissions. Finally, in light of to date literature review, the paper will emphasise requirement of a fundamental framework for identification and categorisation of energy related obsolescence in the built environment, which shall attract interests for further investigation from both researchers and practitioners.
This paper is concerned with how space is socially produced and the struggles this process entail... more This paper is concerned with how space is socially produced and the struggles this process entails. Critically engaging with readings of Henri Lefebvre's spatial notion of the "right to the city" we contemplate its radical potency to reconstitute a renewed right to urban life. We argue that the right to the city has substantial contemporary import, extending to spatial practitioners such as architects. This conclusion is reached by exploring the neoliberal imperative to conquer space, grappling with the issue of social justice as a means to decipher who (re)produces the city and in what ways. Highly visible strategies are contrasted with some less visible counter-practices, by developing a conceptual framework that emphasises ACCESSING, BEING and PARTICIPATING in the city. We contend that "little victories" offer location-specific insights into alternative methods of production, and pose some unsettling questions for architects.
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Papers by Bob Giddings