Victoria Habermehl
The density dialectic: Between hard and gentle densification in London
Habermehl, Victoria; McFarlane, Colin
Abstract
Density is critical to cities, but how might we conceive and research its role in urban development? We argue that a conceptualisation of the ‘density dialectic’ offers a productive response. Drawing on research on urban development in Tower Hamlets (London’s densest borough), we identify the tensions and contradictions of current densification approaches. A dialectical approach illuminates those tensions, examines the range of actors, processes, and social, economic and environmental concerns that become enrolled, and identifies how the dialectic operates to accommodate its changing relations and contradictions. In a context of rapid and intense urban development, we draw on interviews with planners to show how ‘gentle’ and ‘hard’ visions of density connect, conflate, and collide as the borough looks to meet challenging housing targets alongside social and environmental objectives.
Citation
Habermehl, V., & McFarlane, C. (in press). The density dialectic: Between hard and gentle densification in London. International Journal of Urban and Regional Research,
Journal Article Type | Article |
---|---|
Acceptance Date | Aug 26, 2024 |
Deposit Date | Sep 2, 2024 |
Journal | International Journal of Urban and Regional Research |
Print ISSN | 0309-1317 |
Electronic ISSN | 1468-2427 |
Publisher | Wiley |
Peer Reviewed | Peer Reviewed |
Keywords | density; urban development; dialectics; London |
Public URL | https://durham-repository.worktribe.com/output/2782112 |
Publisher URL | https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/journal/14682427 |
This file is under embargo due to copyright reasons.
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