David Byrne's article in this issue presents a careful analysis of the 'residual' and 'emergent' cultures of England's pre-eminent rustbelt region and the scope for a new consciousness - new 'structures of feeling' - as a basis for change. Here Fred Robinson examines the scope for alternative 'visions' and plans for the region which would be grounded in real material and cultural conditions. From the deprived end of England's regional spectrum, he offers a counterpart to John Tomaney's recent discussion of the potential of London's regional governance ( City , Vol. 5, No. 2, 2001, pp. 225-248) and Michael Edwards' paper on global-local interactions in the South East ( City , Vol. 6, No. 1, 2002, pp. 25-42).
