Regeneration: a matter of maps

In July this year, the government published a document called Transforming Places, Changing Lives. It was trailed as a complete rethink of the way regeneration is funded in the UK. No longer would money be tied to "bricks-and-mortar" targets, we were told. Instead cash would be aimed at schemes that helped "boost enterprise, give people the skills to work, promote better health, and attract business investment". Hazel Blears, the communities secretary, said at the time: "We want long-lasting regeneration that will help people and neighbourhoods to take responsibility and enable everyone to rise as far as their talents can take them. It's not just about giving buildings a facelift. Regeneration is about empowering people and improving economic prospects is the key. If you deal with pockets of unemployment, improvements in... [read full story]