Measuring the Initial Social Sustainability Impacts of Estate Regeneration: A Case Study of Acton Gardens, London

Abstract

In the context of UK housebuilding this paper explores and critically reviews the initial measurement of social sustainability in the first phase of a new housing project on a large estate regeneration development in South Acton, London (conducted in March-April 2015). The research uses an existing "ex post" social sustainability framework adopted for use in other new UK housing projects and also examines local residents' attitudes to the first phase of the estate regeneration. The social sustainability assessment framework (created to reflect a UK housebuilder's perspective) is based on the analysis and comparison of a range of national datasets and interviews and survey work with new and existing residents and other stakeholders on the estate, and the surrounding areas. The research shows stronger ratings for a number of physical improvements in the new development, but weaker scores for local identity and links with neighbours. The research also shows a mixed picture in their attitudes towards the urban regeneration. The paper provides a critical discussion of the results and the framework, and concludes by setting out the lessons learned from the research for social sustainability assessment. The research will be useful for practitioners, housebuilders and policy makers involved in housing, and those with a wider interest in community wellbeing.

A spatial examination of solar PV adopters in Northern Ireland: the role of housing market and socio-economic characteristics

“…Tapsuwan et al (2018) suggest that housing affordability, energy-saving designs and neighbourhood safety are the most desirable features of the residential properties. Research has also noted that the urban landscape, green spaces and energy conservation are important for social sustainability since they create sustainable places that promote well-being to increase urban comfort (Dixon et al , 2019; Jennings et al , 2016). Others, such as Li et al (2015), also contend that built environment-related factors such as poverty, shortage of environmental resources, pollution and poor-quality housing are comorbid with poor health and well-being.…”