In this episode of A is for Architecture, urban sociologist Robert G. Hollands discusses some themes of his book, Beyond the Neoliberal Creative City: Critique and Alternatives in the Urban Cultural Economy, published by Bristol University Press (2023). We discuss the nature and problems of the "creative city" model, its impact on gentrification and inequality, and alternative urban strategies that promote grassroots initiatives and cultural sustainability.

In the book, Robert exposes the contradictions and injustices of the neoliberal creative city. But per the title, he goes beyond critique and advocates for alternative urban models based on justice, sustainability and participatory governance, proposing new ways cities can foster creativity without fuelling displacement.

A good episode for anyone involved in equitable city-making.

Robert is Emeritus Professor of Sociology in the School of Geography, Politics and Sociology at Newcastle University, and can be found there and on LinkedIn. 

📖 Learn more about the book: Bristol University Press

🎧 Listen now and rethink the future of our cities!

📢#UrbanPlanning #CreativeCity #ArchitecturePodcast #RobertGHollands #CityDevelopment #UrbanAlternatives #Gentrification #CulturalEconomy #SustainableCities #AisforArchitecture

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Music credits: ⁠Bruno Gillick