Individual reflection

This module was a very positive experience. I have learnt a great deal about regeneration and the complexities it entangles. I have also learnt the different ways regeneration projects can be financed, including through a community land trust, or a public-private partnership. I have learnt about the importance of these factors and the extent to which they can influence urban regeneration, not to mention its outcomes. 

 

Additionally, I have learnt about the importance of ensuring that regeneration projects meet both the policies and aspirations of a local council and its residents. 

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On this project, in particular, I’ve learnt the importance of having good urban design, as well as ensuring that additional infrastructure to make a place good are provided. These include cycle lanes, walking spaces, good access to public transport, affordable housing, and adequate number of public green spaces. Some of these factors are more essential than ever before as a result of a post-pandemic world, in that people demand better quality of life through better designed homes, easy access to public green and cycling spaces.

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This project has made me reflect upon sustainability whilst ensuring that the local heritage is both preserved and reused.

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One of the most important points that I have reflected upon is the necessity to avoid gentrification in order to reduce inequality. Thus, a central feature of my project is affordable housing and what I would define as cultural and geographical inclusivity. Indeed, social inclusivity and the implementation of networking infrastructure that links the development to the rest of East London is part of a vision aimed at bridging 'human distances'.

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Finally, this project has been important for me is because I learnt about developing websites. Therefore, I’ve learnt how to structure a website, clarity of text and imagery, as well as the importance of accessibility.