Birmingham, United Kingdom - Economic Change Flashcards
Outline the basic significance of Birmingham as a city in the UK.
Large metropolitan region in West Midlands conurbation with 1.1 million residents
What was the major trade of Medieval Birmingham?
Metalwork
Which area was particularly known for its involvement in the Medieval metalworks?
The Black Country
What were four of the main trades involved in nineteenth century Birmingham?
Firearms, Jewellery, Brass, Cadbury
Which developments in the early Twentieth Century provided another substantial source of employment?
Opening of Austin car plant and Dunlop car factory
What was the significance of the Austin car plant and Dunlop car factory opening?
Increased migration to Birmingham for employment
How did Birmingham fare in the Great Depression?
It survived due to diversity in its economy
Name three things that meant Birmingham thrived in the 1950s-60s.
Unemployment was less than 1%, the city acted as a transport hub, large metal industry
How did Birmingham fare in the 1970s and 80s? Why?
Suffered due to global recession causing a rise in oil price and rise of cost of living, globalisation meant labour was cheaper elsewhere eg. Japanese Nissan cars cheaper than Austins/Dunlop
Give five examples of where ethnic diversity can be seen in modern Birmingham.
Restaurants, shops, clothing, banks + ATMs + currency exchange, people
Approximately how much of the population of Birmingham is white British?
53%
Approximately how much of the population of Birmingham is Pakistani?
13.5%
Roughly how much of the population is under 24 years old?
38%
How much of the population is over the age of 65?§
13%
How have the local government recently tried to regenerate Birmingham?
Promoted the inner-city airport
How has the City Challenge helped regenerate Birmingham?
Granted funds to the city in late 20th century for improvements
How was the Single Regeneration Budget helped the city?
Money from the EU given to develop the city
What does the New Deals for Communities contribute to the city?
Work experience schemes from 1999
How much did the EU Social Investment give Birmingham?
£235 million
Which socio-economic aspect did the European Regional Development Fund support?
Improved housing and businesses
Name three flagship developments in Birmingham.
International Convention Centre, Symphony Hall, National Indoor Area
Outline the significance of the University of Birmingham
Population of 50,000, youthful population, brings in wealth and employment, students provide market for goods and services
What is the Bull Ring and what is its significance to Birmingham’s economic development?
Europe’s first major indoor shopping centre, redeveloped in 1960s, contains flagships such as Selfridges department store
What is the Canal and River Trust and what is its significance to Birmingham’s economic development?
Charity set up in 2012 that oversees city’s canal system, contributed to regeneration in Gas Street Basin and Brindley Place
