Listen "Episode 3 - Cultural regeneration"
Episode Synopsis
This episode explores how culture and the arts can spark regeneration in secondary cities. From repurposing abandoned spaces to strengthening community identity, we examine how cultural initiatives can breathe new life into urban areas. While flagship projects like Bilbao’s Guggenheim have transformed cities, we discuss the challenges of sustainability and whether such approaches truly benefit local communities.
We also dive into cultural planning – an alternative grassroots-driven approach that prioritises community involvement and long-term resilience. The conversation highlights the risks of imposing a fixed cultural identity on a city and the importance of embracing diverse, evolving urban cultures.
Through real-world examples from across Europe, we consider what makes cultural regeneration successful and explore how cities can integrate arts and culture into their development strategies in a way that is both inclusive and impactful.
We also dive into cultural planning – an alternative grassroots-driven approach that prioritises community involvement and long-term resilience. The conversation highlights the risks of imposing a fixed cultural identity on a city and the importance of embracing diverse, evolving urban cultures.
Through real-world examples from across Europe, we consider what makes cultural regeneration successful and explore how cities can integrate arts and culture into their development strategies in a way that is both inclusive and impactful.
More episodes of the podcast Secondary Cities, Primary Opportunities - A Podcast By Urban C:lab
Episode 1 - What are secondary cities?
16/04/2025
Episode 2 - Shrinking smart
16/04/2025
Episode 4 - Migration
22/04/2025
Episode 5 - Climate resilience
23/04/2025
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