With reference to one urban policy in Britain since 1979, evaluate its success in contributing to urban resurgence. - AQA - A-Level Geography - Question 3 - 2022 - Paper 2

One significant urban policy in Britain since 1979 is the partnership schemes initiated as part of urban regeneration efforts. The policy aimed to revitalize urban areas, drawing people back into cities like London and Manchester.

A key example is the London Docklands Development Corporation (LDDC), which was established to enhance the economic viability of the Docklands area. This initiative successfully attracted significant private investment and resulted in the construction of housing and commercial properties, creating jobs and boosting local economies.

However, the success of such policies must be critically assessed. While the LDDC created thousands of jobs, it also led to the gentrification of the area, which displaced many long-term residents. The increase in property values made it difficult for lower-income families to remain in their homes, which raises questions about equity and inclusivity in urban resurgence.

In contrast, the New Deal for Communities aimed to tackle social exclusion and targeted funding to deprived areas, thus addressing some of the negatives associated with gentrification. Although it yielded varied results, with some communities seeing improvements and others struggling to benefit, it reflected a more holistic approach to urban policy.

Ultimately, while the urban policies implemented since 1979 have contributed to urban resurgence by revitalizing regions through economic development, their success is mixed. The balance between economic growth and social equity remains a crucial consideration in evaluating the overall impact of these policies.