new urban landscapes - gentrification (Brixton)

Question 1

gentrification

Answer 1

process of housing improvements carried out by individuals and not supported bodies
housing becomes desirable by physical and social upgrades
higher income workers being able to renovate housing that was previously unmaintained by lower class workers
low-income groups displaced by more affluent people

Question 2

reasons

Answer 2

rent gap - price of property fallen below real value (usually due to lack of maintainance) - attract developers who can afford to renovate and sell for profit
commuting costs - moving closer to city elimates this
pioneer image - creative individuals moving to more ‘edgy’ areas as they’re drawn to diverse cultural opportunities of urban centre
support from local government as they’re keen to improve economy and environment of inner city

Question 3

e.g., Brixton (1993-2021) advantages

Answer 3

social mix of area changed - became more affluent
purchasing power of residents greater - leading to rise in general level of prosperity
area dominated by ‘yuppies’ (young professionals) - subsequent increase of bars, restaurants, and other high-status services
refurbished taking place in households lead to increase local employment (e.g., decoration)
increase in local tax for local authority
physical environment improved
today seen as a vibrant area popular place to live with buzzing social and cultural scene

Question 4

Brixton (1993-2021) disadvantages

Answer 4

local people on low incomes find it increasingly difficult to purchase housing (price of refurbished property expensive)
friction and conflict between ‘newcomers’ and original residents
higher car ownership increases congestion
potential loss of business for traditional local shops
increase in mainstream shops, pubs, and bars increases fear of removal of history (black culture being erased)