Social Cohesion and Resilience through Citizen Engagement

This incisive book examines how citizens are increasingly taking it upon themselves to change their neighbourhoods and communities, becoming co-producers, makers and pioneers who actively participate in the design of urban spaces and spatial processes. Analysing the potentials and limitations of civic engagement, it discusses how such participation has led to greater cohesion of communities against changing environments.

The book explores a diverse range of examples and case studies related to local practices in urban neighbourhoods and communities, reflecting the variability of civic initiatives in European cities and regions. Investigating critical topics such as cultural heritage, social or third places and tactical urbanism, chapters examine the relations between (temporary) civic engagement, social cohesion and resilience, urban change, urban planning and governance. As citizens’ actions and initiatives are becoming increasingly influential in cities and regions, it presents bottom-up and top-down approaches to better understand the spatial impacts and dimensions of civic engagement.

Social Cohesion and Resilience through Citizen Engagement will prove an indispensable resource for postgraduate students of urban policy, strategic spatial planning, town and country planning, urban and regional development and territorial governance. Its timely analysis of developments and planning strategies will also benefit policy makers interested in civic engagement and urban change.