Week 10: Livable Cities Flashcards
What defines a liveable city?
A place that allows residents to be healthy, thrive, participate economically/socially, feel safe, and meet/exceed daily needs. It’s context-dependent and tied to improving physical and social urban conditions.
How do community gardens improve liveability?
They foster community bonds, boost social cohesion, encourage physical activity, and make small contributions to local food security.
What is gentrification?
A class-based neighbourhood change where higher-income individuals move into lower-income areas, increasing rents and displacing existing residents.
What are the broader impacts of gentrification beyond housing costs?
Retail shifts to luxury/niche goods, eroding traditional local businesses and reducing cultural diversity and affordability for long-time residents.
Can gentrification happen in rural areas?
Yes—through rising property values due to second homes/holiday homes, displacing long-term residents and altering community dynamics.
Difference between urban renewal and gentrification?
Urban renewal revitalises areas physically/economically. Without careful planning, it can lead to gentrification and displacement.
What’s an example of urban renewal with gentrification risks?
Regent Park (Toronto) – a renewal added market-priced units and promised affordable ones. There’s concern over potential displacement of original residents.
What other strategies improve liveability beyond gardens?
Equitable access to parks, libraries, public transport, affordable housing, pedestrian-friendly spaces, and inclusive planning processes.
Define social displacement.
When residents (often lower-income) are involuntarily moved due to rising costs, often losing access to services and social networks.
What does “gentrification by cappuccino” mean?
It reflects retail changes in gentrified areas—trendy cafés and luxury goods replace stores that served long-time residents.
What tension exists in rural gentrification?
Balancing economic development (e.g., tourism, property investment) with preserving existing community uses and affordability.
What is the core dilemma in planning urban renewal?
Supporting growth and vitality without displacing vulnerable populations or reducing social equity and community character.
What is the built environment’s role in social well-being?
Its design affects how people interact, access amenities, and feel connected. Ex: gardens boost community interaction and health.
