The Erosion of Forgotten Communities: The Challenges Faced by Working-class Communities in the Northern Seaside Town of Blackpool
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AMPS Architecture Media Politics Society
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Blackpool, a seaside town in Lancashire, UK, has a rich working-class heritage and a community that has experienced significant deprivation and transformation over the years. One prominent concern is the combination of unemployment and gentrification, which has had a particularly profound effect on the working-class community of Blackpool. The changing dynamics of the area, often exacerbating existing socioeconomic inequalities creating significant challenges specifically when it comes to housing affordability. This often leads to rising property prices and rents as wealthier residents move into these areas with the demand for housing increases driving up costs. This makes it increasingly difficult for working-class individuals and families to afford housing in their own communities, as the gentrification process forces the established working-class families to abandon their communities with local businesses having to close their doors creating ghetto like areas. This displacement and lack of affordable housing options can force them to relocate to less desirable areas away from their families, communities and employment with limited resources and opportunities disrupting the established social networks and support systems. This can be seen as one of the most significant impacts of gentrification on the working-class is displacement. Displacement disrupts established communities, erodes social cohesion, and undermines residents' sense of belonging and stability. Displaced individuals are often faced with challenges in finding alternative housing options that are affordable and within close proximity to their workplaces, schools, and social networks. Emergency housing initiatives such as temporary housing in local hotels has also been a subject to closure further forcing the working classes away from the area. This not only has a significant impact for housing of families, but it also has a significant impact on the local communities and visitors to the areaDescription
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AMPS PROCEEDINGS SERIES 39.2. City, University of London. 26-28 June, 2024. Livable Cities London, ISSN: 2398-9467 (Print), A Critique of Issues Affecting Life in Cities (39.2), 21-34. https://amps-research.com/proceedings/
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