New horizons for old industrial areas: urban shrinkage and social capital in Blaenau Gwent, Wales

Maja Ročak, Gert-Jan Hospers and Nol Reverda

Urban Research & Practice, 2020, vol. 13, issue 4, 363-389

Abstract: This article explores social capital in the shrinking old industrial area of Blaenau Gwent, Wales. The results indicate that economic change has impacted the social capital in unfavourable ways, leading to mistrust, a negative image of the area, low empowerment and low participation. Tradition appears to have played a strong role in disabling the transformation of the area, but new paths for social development are emerging slowly. Changes in social capital can be observed through the actions of entrepreneurs. Finally, trust between actors and flexibility in handling available resources are identified as key requirements for social transformation.

Date: 2020
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DOI: 10.1080/17535069.2019.1568539

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