Public space, austerity, and innovation (the London case)

Abstract

Through an overview of the period 2008 to 2018, this chapter reflects on the impact of the austerity years on the processes of shaping public spaces. The chapter draws from the experiences of London to explore processes of the design, development, use, and management of public spaces during this period, many of which are likely to be applicable to other major cities that have shared an austerity mandate. The evidence suggests that we have witnessed a period of significant innovation side by side with major challenges in the collective approach to public spaces. Episodes of changing practice are used to illustrate the argument and cumulatively reveal a distinct and significant impact from austerity, although not necessarily in the manner that might have been expected.