urban renewal

Urban regeneration taking place at Castlefield in Manchester, England, in the form of new housing. Castlefield is a typical inner-city location. Industrial production sites boomed there in the 19th century, but as heavy industry declined so too did the fortunes of British inner cities. In the late 20th century, areas such as this have often been redeveloped with new housing, and new services and facilities.

Urban redevelopment at Canary Wharf in the Docklands, London, England. Docklands is a typical inner-city location. The traditional heavy industries, such as warehousing, storage, and distribution, were at their peak in the 19th century, but have been replaced by service-industry employers whose business is in sectors such as law and finance.

Adaptation of existing buildings and neighbourhoods in towns and cities to meet changes in economic, social, and environmental requirements, rather than their demolition. Since the early 1970s, when it became less expensive to renew than to build, urban renewal has increased.

A major objective is to preserve the historical and cultural character of a locality, but at the same time to improve the environment and meet new demands, such as rapidly increasing motor traffic.