A critical examination of recent developments in public participation in urban regeneration with particular reference to Spitalfields, east London

Community participation in urban regeneration has advanced significantly since the Skeffington report was published over 35 years ago. Successive government approaches to local involvement have attempted to move participation beyond government rhetoric to create real and practical opportunities for local communities to get involved. This dissertation studies community involvement in urban regeneration with a particular reference to the area of Spitalfields in East London. It demonstrates that changes in approach to regeneration have significantly affected the ability for local people to get involved in the improvement of their neighbourhoods. Following recent initiatives launched by the current Labour government and the introduction of the Planning and Compulsory Purchase Act, opportunities for participation are at an all time high. However, questions remain concerning the reality of community participation particularly for small and minority groups