Tensions and relations on the use and exchange of place

Abstract

A community’s knowledge and understanding of a place is rarely taken into consideration when urban projects are envisaged for ‘blighted areas’. When residents are not consulted, the project can have negative repercussions on the community in question. This paper explores why residents and service providers had to resort to action to ensure that community regeneration is returned “to its proper function: as providing people with decent cities to live, work and leisure in” (Blackshaw, 2012, p. 185). A participant action research approach was adopted to promote the needs and interests of the community. The objective of this action was to provide decent and affordable housing for residents earning an average wage or less, while safeguarding the tangible heritage in this socially deprived area. Heritage is a source of empowerment for people living in this area.