Understanding the change in the social networks of residential groups affected by urban renewal

Abstract

The process of urban renewal extensively changes residents' physical and social environments and, at the same time, reconstructs their social networks. Although there is a growing interest in analyzing the determinants of social networks, extant research neither accounts for the change in social networks after urban renewal nor considers the various residential groups affected by urban renewal. This work of research aims to examine the impact of urban renewal on social networks within neighborhoods based on three affected residential groups (in-site stayers, nearby stayers, and relocated residents) using data collected from six renewal areas in Chongqing, China. The results show that physical and social environmental changes significantly influence social networks during urban renewal. Socio-demographic factors such as age and education are associated with social network changes. The three affected residential groups identified significant differences in social networks after urban renewal. Nearby stayers experienced the largest increase in their network, while relocated residents experienced the most significant decrease. Social network changes for the same affected residential group also vary based on socioeconomic factors and perceptions of the residential environment. Targeted policy implications are provided for the specific affected residential groups.