Dock 1 re-development : will the area be gentrified and less prone to crime? : a comparative study

Abstract

Gentrification is not a novel phenomenon to Malta; however, it has only gained prominence in recent years. Indeed, many regeneration projects involve gentrification, which is the process of displacing low-income residents in an area, replacing them with middle-class and more affluent residents thereby changing the character and flavour of the area by increasing property value and changing lifestyles. This type of displacement could either increase criminality, or decrease it, depending on the residents and the area itself, as well as their ability to adapt to change.

This is indeed the fulcrum of the current study, which will focus on the effects of the regeneration project of Dock 1 in Cospicua on the residents, not only in relation to property and the new wave of incoming people, but also vis-à-vis criminality. Criminality around Dock 1 has always been an issue; therefore, this study will analyse people’s perceptions of the present situation and what the future holds in light of crime in this area. Ultimately, the results of these factors will determine whether gentrification is taking place in the area and whether they are having a positive or negative effect on both the locality and the locals.