Desireable And Undesirable Urban Areas EQ2 Flashcards
(14 cards)
Why were Victorian urban areas considered undesirable during industrialisation?
-During the 19th century Industrial Revolution, cities rapidly expanded as people moved from rural areas in search of work
-However, this growth outpaced infrastructure. Urban areas became overcrowded slums with poor sanitation, inadequate housing, and high levels of poverty
-Coal smoke from factories choked the air, raw sewage was dumped into rivers like the Thames, and life expectancy dropped to around 37 in London
-These harsh conditions, combined with child labour and crime, made cities threatening and undesirable to many, particularly the middle and upper classes
What were the dangers associated with Victorian cities?
-Sanitation and health: Raw sewage in rivers, coal smoke, and lack of clean water led to cholera, smallpox, typhoid, and flu epidemics.
-Working conditions: Manual labour was dangerous and foul-smelling; workers had few rights.
-Child exploitation: Children as young as 5 worked in dangerous jobs like chimney sweeping.
-Poverty and crime: Extreme poverty led to high rates of petty crime, prostitution, and disorder.
-Perception: The middle classes associated cities with moral decline and physical danger
Why did the middle and upper classes view Victorian cities negatively?
-They perceived cities as morally and physically dangerous. The visible poverty, rise in street crime, presence of slums, and social mixing of classes were seen as threats
-These groups often moved to suburbs or rural areas to avoid what they saw as chaos, disease, and immorality
-Their views were shaped by media, personal experience, and a desire to preserve their lifestyle and health
Why would higher living costs make an area undesirable?
-Wages may be higher in cities, but so are costs.
-Housing prices are inflated due to demand.
-Daily expenses like food, transport, and commuting costs are significantly higher.
-This puts financial pressure on low- and middle-income households and can lead to urban poverty and displacement.
-Students and migrants may especially struggle with affordability, causing stress and inequality
Why would low environmental quality make an urban area undesirable?
-Urban centres tend to have poor air quality due to traffic and industrial activity.
-Noise and light pollution affect sleep, health, and wellbeing.
-Inner-city housing is often dense and poorly maintained, with higher rates of damp and dereliction.
-Antisocial behaviour and lack of green spaces reduce quality of life. These issues can deter families or the elderly from living in such areas.
Why is crime perceived as high in cities and how does it make them undesirable?
-Cities have higher poverty levels, which can drive certain types of crime.
-Crime is often concentrated in certain ‘hotspot’ areas, even if not all urban areas are dangerous.
-Types of crime may include theft, assault, gang activity, or antisocial behaviour
-Fear of crime, whether accurate or not, can negatively impact residents’ sense of safety and trust
Why can ethnic diversity be seen as both desirable and undesirable?
-Urban areas tend to have high ethnic diversity, due to inward migration and historical settlement patterns
-While diversity brings cultural vibrancy, innovation, and community, it can also result in segregation—voluntary or forced.
-Some groups form enclaves for support, but this can limit integration and reinforce social divides
-Perceptions vary: diversity can enrich life or lead to tensions depending on local dynamics and attitudes
Why is isolation common in cities?
-Cities attract transient populations: students, migrants, commuters.
-Community ties are weaker than in rural areas; neighbours may not interact
-Elderly residents often feel disconnected, especially if they’ve outlived friends or family.
-Urban pressures and the fast pace of life mean people may self-isolate, leading to mental health issues and loneliness
Why does Newcastle’s student population make it a desirable place to live?
-Around 17% of the population are university students, largely from Newcastle and Northumbria universities
-This creates a youthful, energetic atmosphere and supports a wide range of services like libraries, cafes, clubs, and student housing
-The universities’ specialism in STEM subjects (like Medicine and Biomedical Sciences) attracts global talent and contributes to research and innovation in the city
How do cultural attractions add to Newcastle’s desirability?
-Newcastle boasts iconic cultural features like the Quayside, which offers scenic riverfront views, bars, and markets
-The city is famous for its nightlife, often referred to as a “party city,” which appeals to younger demographics
-Attractions like St James’ Park (home to Newcastle United) create a strong local identity and community pride, drawing both residents and tourists
Why are lower living costs in Newcastle important?
-Compared to southern cities like London or Oxford, Newcastle has significantly lower house prices, rent, and everyday expenses (e.g. transport, food)
-This makes it more accessible for young professionals, families, and students
-People can enjoy city life without the extreme financial pressures found in more expensive UK urban centres
What makes Newcastle’s growing knowledge economy attractive?
-Newcastle is developing strongly in high-skill sectors such as IT, finance, and biomedical sciences
-This shift attracts graduates and professionals seeking stable, future-focused employment
-It also helps to reduce brain drain by offering career opportunities locally, and makes the city economically resilient and competitive on a national level
How do transport links enhance Newcastle’s desirability?
-Newcastle is served by the Metro (one of the UK’s few urban light rail systems), excellent bus services, and key road/rail links
-This ensures smooth travel within the city and to nearby hubs like Sunderland, Durham, and even London
-Good transport makes commuting, socialising, and access to services much easier, especially for students and workers
Why is cultural diversity and a vibrant identity important in Newcastle?
-Newcastle has a multicultural population that contributes to a rich mix of food, festivals, and traditions. This cultural vibrancy fosters inclusivity and appeals to both migrants and locals
-A strong sense of place and local pride (e.g. Geordie identity, local music and football culture) makes people feel part of a shared community, which increases long-term settlement and wellbeing
