The role of events in urban regeneration

Abstract

Events are major elements of the cultural economy of the post-industrial city, and are viewed by many as a catalyst for urban regeneration. The impact of an event can be social, economic and environmental, short-lived or long-lasting depending on the nature of the event and the urban context in which it occurs. While some events may be one-off or small-scale with local impact (such as the gala days held in many small towns), others are large-scale mega events with potentially major impacts on the economic, social and environmental character of a host city. Examples of such periodic impact events include the Notting Hill Carnival in London, Garden Festivals, the European Capital of Culture programme, and sporting events such as football World Cups, Commonwealth Games and the Olympic Games. Study of the nature and impact of events on urban form and function is an important fieldin urban-cultural geography. This chapter focuses on the link between events and urban regeneration. First we discuss the nature of urban economic change in post-war cities then examine the concepts of urban regeneration and the urban cultural economy. On the basis of this conceptual foundation we undertake a critical examination of the impact of events on urban regeneration. A case study of Glasgow is presented to embed the discussion in an urban context. Finally, a number of lessons of relevance for future event-based urban regeneration strategies are identified.