Research from the Runnymede Trust and the Centre for Labour and Social Studies (CLASS) interrogates the dynamics of race and class in London through the lens of gentrification.
Using a completely novel methodology, the report maps the process of gentrification as it occurred throughout London's boroughs from 2010 to 2016. Comprising measurements of population churn, demographic changes related to race and ethnicity, house prices and indices of deprivation, a comprehensive 'gentrification index' has been developed to portray the pervasive nature of the phenomenon in the past decade.
Southwark, Waltham Forest and Brent were selected as case studies to provide further analysis of the transformation forces at play in each borough.
The research finds that the boroughs which gentrified the most between 2010 and 2016 were Tower Hamlets, Wandsworth and Newham
The research finds that the boroughs which gentrified the least in the same period were Havering, Bexley and Bromley
The first-ever quantitative analysis of 'Opportunity Areas' and their impact on gentrification in the city is also included in the research.
Through examining the past, we have an opportunity to better understand what we are at risk of losing if gentrification continues unabated and to consider what we want from future iterations of the city.
- The report makes five policy recommendations which would better protect communities as regeneration occurs:
- Introduce rent controls into the private sector
- Ensure that all developments within Opportunity Areas (OA) deliver at least 50 per cent social housing
- Build more social housing units and expand community-land trusts
- Secure a ‘right to return’ for all residents living in estates undergoing regeneration schemes.
- Establish a Social Impact Assessment in Development and Strategic Plans.
