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How far do you agree that new urban landscapes such as fortress developments, heritage quarters and edge cities have intensified issues associated with economic inequality and social segregation? [20 marks] - AQA - A-Level Geography - Question 3 - 2022 - Paper 2
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How far do you agree that new urban landscapes such as fortress developments, heritage quarters and edge cities have intensified issues associated with economic ineq... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:How far do you agree that new urban landscapes such as fortress developments, heritage quarters and edge cities have intensified issues associated with economic inequality and social segregation? [20 marks] - AQA - A-Level Geography - Question 3 - 2022 - Paper 2
Step 1
AO1 - Knowledge and understanding of new urban landscapes
Answer
New urban landscapes include developments like fortress structures, heritage quarters, and edge cities. These landscapes are characterized by factors such as their design, purpose, and socio-economic implications.
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Fortress Developments: These are typically gated communities designed to protect residents from perceived external threats. They often lead to social exclusion by restricting access to public spaces and limiting engagement with diverse populations.
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Heritage Quarters: These areas aim to preserve historical architecture while promoting tourism. However, this preservation can lead to rising property values, pushing out lower-income residents and contributing to economic inequality.
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Edge Cities: These are suburban clusters that contain office, retail, and entertainment spaces. They often perpetuate social segregation by attracting affluent populations, while affordable housing remains largely inaccessible to lower-income groups.
Step 2
AO2 - Application of knowledge and understanding to analyze and evaluate the extent
Answer
The degree to which these landscapes exacerbate economic inequality and social segregation can be assessed through various socio-economic indicators.
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Economic Impact: Urban developments can elevate property prices and influence local economies, often benefiting wealthy individuals while sidelining lower-income households. For instance, as property development increases in heritage quarters, the associated rise in housing costs can displace long-time residents.
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Social Segregation: Fortress developments can create physical and psychological barriers that prevent meaningful interaction between different social groups. An example is the contrasting living conditions in affluent gated communities versus poorer neighboring regions, leading to stark socio-economic divides.
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Accessibility to Resources: Edge cities often lack public transport infrastructure that connects lower-income neighborhoods with job opportunities, further entrenching economic disparity.
In conclusion, while these urban landscapes may introduce development benefits, they largely reinforce existing socio-economic divides and exacerbate issues of inequality and segregation.