The place-based conditions of planning central areas of regional cities as places of residence

Oddrun Helen Hagen

European Planning Studies, 2025, vol. 33, issue 9, 1554-1579

Abstract: In the context of densification and urban revitalization efforts, understanding the appeal of central areas in small and medium-sized cities is a critical planning challenge. This paper examines how place-based conditions influence central areas’ residential attractiveness. It directs three gaps in the literature: the limited focus on central living in smaller cities and towns, the neglect of residential attraction for potential residents and the need for insights into the attractiveness of central flats. The study examines four regional cities in Norway, core cities of their regions. It reveals that despite various dwelling types, residents of central areas are likelier to be single households and without children. Central flats attract people from a long-term perspective, accounting for changing life circumstances. Essential assets and drawbacks of central living resemble those experienced within larger cities. Proximity to retail and services and car-free access attract the residents. Negative aspects include noise and traffic. Planners must balance potentially conflicting matters when developing central neighbourhoods. The study's findings suggest that restricting urban sprawl and increasing the number of central flats with access to private outdoor space and parking will likely provide more residences fitting people’s preferences, thereby offering valuable insights and practical guidance for urban planners.

Date: 2025
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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:taf:eurpls:v:33:y:2025:i:9:p:1554-1579

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DOI: 10.1080/09654313.2025.2509804

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