Reinventing the new town for the 21st century

Project outline

Under a brave new post-war Britain, The New Towns Act of 1946 was passed to address a major housing shortage - a programme not only for the reconstruction of the built environment, but also for the creation of a fairer society. Whether a success or not remains debatable. What is clear however is that the new towns were built with a strong vision and incredibly ambitious targets. Today, the UK is again leading a major regeneration project, with the aim of creating new and sustainable communities in four 'Growth Areas', not just a series of new homes. By studying the New Towns programme and its legacy, this PhD aimed to set the scene for a much-needed discussion on the current proposals and strategy for development in the UK.

Achievements

Strong links were established with the Architecture Foundation, London and with other relevant bodies, drawing upon advice for other academics working in the field.

Helena set up and populated the project website 'A small studio', which other interested parties have contributed to. An extensive review of the literature on new towns was completed. The research also involved visits to three eco-towns in continental Europe that are being hailed as exemplary new developments: Vauban in Germany, Bo 01 in Sweden, and Hammarby Sjöstad, also in Sweden. The process of 'retrofitting' exisiting brownfield sites was explored through a visit to Hoogvliet, Netherlands.

Helena has been able to disseminate her research findings through the project website and through an exhibition with the Architecture Foundation.

By reappraising the concept of the new town, the project has identified key issues affecting contemporary approaches to urbanity and urbanism, and proposed models by which to re-orientate and re-inform current practice in urban and suburban development.