Regeneration and Public Participation : A Case for an Arts, Crafts and Technology Cluster in the London Bridge Area

This paper reports on a new initiative aimed at creating an integrated approach to encouraging the formation of a new cluster of Arts, Crafts and Technology (ACT) in London around the London Bridge area by emphasising the importance of identity and branding in urban centres. Here we present the outcome of an on-going collaboration between London South Bank University and Team London Bridge on a Knowledge Transfer Collaboration (KTC) project in order to guide the regeneration plans for this part of London which is currently suffering from an above average rate of unemployment, crime, poverty and other social ills. Following from an examination of the context of the project and by presenting the socio-economic evidence – suggesting that the existing urban structure is unable to fertilise the talents and entrepreneurial opportunities in the area – we present a brief review of theories of urbanisation and regeneration, and argue that the emergence of new modes of production and specialisation due to new technologies are creating new opportunities for urban areas to reclaim some of their traditional roles as places for production of customised and high quality goods and services. This concept is rooted in the evidence supporting the importance of creative industries in the successful regeneration of urban areas. Although the idea of an Arts, Crafts and Technology cluster has been based on personal observations and judgement of the author, the current KTC project aimed to test the feasibility of this proposition by engaging with the stakeholders and creating a community spirit and approach to planning. This action research project therefore aims to apply novel approaches in planning by creating a participatory process which can help develop a deeper understanding of the stakeholders’ roles (over time and space), and by using and encouraging a bottom-up approach to policy making. The argument is largely in favour of market forces as the main force in shaping the future opportunities in cities but it is also strongly supportive of the importance given to the role of stakeholders in determining the activities and responses to planning, use and development of real estate in urban areas