bbc bitesize geography london case study

London Case Study of Urban Area

What’s life like.

London is located in South East England, in the continent of Europe.

Located on the Thames River, the land is flat as it is on the flood plain. Located on the Thames as this was a ‘bridging point’ during Roman times. Economically this meant that businesses started in the area and trade soon started.

London is a very well connected city. It is situated in the south east of England, in Western Europe. The M25 runs around London. A number of other motorways lead to London. These include the M1, M11 and M23 meaning quick access to other cities across UK. There are 5 airports meaning tourists and trade are easily attracted- London can be considered a global hub for air travel. Ferries and Eurotunnel allow for further increase in trade which helps to boost FDI.

Some cities are better connected than others because of their physical geography. For example, a city with easy access to the sea will be better connected because of shipping and trade.

London’s structure is more complex than both the Burgess model and the Hoyt model. It’s main economic function has shifted to the Docklands and now includes world famous building like Canary Wharf. In some ways you could say London has 2 CBDs, many businesses and tourists are attracted to Central London

As with the Burgess model the city because more suburban in its function as you get further out. Housing age decreases and in many areas we are seeing new development in residential areas. With the internet and transport businesses are starting to move out of town for cheaper rent, they are ‘footloose’.

Environmental quality improves as you get further out, there is less traffic and pollution and population density decreases.

Pull factors (jobs, culture, infrastructure, education, health play a huge role in attracting migrants (both national and international to London).

Clusters of migrant populations occur as culture develops. New immigrants can be supported by friends and family with settling and language barriers.

Brick Lane is an example of immigration playing a role in changing culture, restaurants, shops selling saris and a mosque are all evidence of this.

The Index of multiple deprivation (IMD) measures inequalities across cities. In London inequality is highest is East London. Traditionally the London docks were in this area, transport links were poor to reduce potential for robbery as a result few businesses were located here. The means a negative multiplier effect where people don’t have jobs, there is less tax paid, councils have less to invest in education and services so people get worse jobs.

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In crux of Geography , discover the inherent charm and nuances of Stratford. This extensive guide magnifies Stratford, London and its importance, particularly highlighted during the Olympics. Gain insights into the vital topic of regeneration , casting light on Stratford before and after, alongside a balanced view of its pros and cons. The transformation of Stratford is also succinctly summarised, alongside a discussion on future regulation and its impact. This all-encompassing text presents a comprehensive understanding of Stratford, its geographical allure, and future prospects.

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Understanding the Location: Stratford London

Before embarking on a tour of Stratford, it's important for you to explore its characteristics and the historical significance of certain events, such as the London Olympics. A keen understanding of these aspects will lead to a richer appreciation of Stratford's geography .

Introduction to Stratford: A Look into Its Characteristics

Stratford, popularly known as the heart of East London, carries a rich history interwoven with contemporary features. The city converges cultural diversity, architectural brilliance and commercial opportunities.

Stratford is defined as a district in the East End of London, England, in the London Borough of Newham.

It's strategically located and connects central London to other parts of the country via a robust transport network. The following aspects contribute to defining the character of Stratford:

• Architecture: Featuring a mix of Victorian, post-war, and cutting-edge modern style.
• Cultural Diversity: A melting pot of cultures from around the globe.
• Leisure and Entertainment: Home to theatres, parks, and arenas that host a variety of events.

Consider Stratford's Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, an architectural marvel that was a major venue for the London 2012 Olympics. Today, it serves as a versatile space for both recreation and various events.

The Significance of Stratford London Olympics

The 2012 London Olympics brought a transformational change to Stratford. The Olympics acted as a springboard for Stratford's regeneration , attracting worldwide attention and economic enrichment.

The London Olympics 2012: A major international multi-sport event that marked a historical moment in Stratford's development.

Here are some of the key impacts of the Olympiad:

Notably, the London Olympic Games became a catalyst for sustainable development. It led to the rise of new infrastructures and housing projects, which were designed with an ecological focus, promoting renewable energy, waste reduction, and biodiversity.

Stratford's geographical location, cultural mix, and links to significant events, make it a vibrant, dynamic destination worthy of study in our exploration of global geography.

The Regeneration of Stratford: A Case Study

Stratford's regeneration, greatly sparked by the 2012 Olympics, is a fascinating case study in urban renewal and sustainable development. Stratford's journey from a once industrial area to the flourishing multiculturality it represents provides insights into the transformative impacts of well-planned urban development.

It is worth noting that the success of this regeneration wasn't by chance but the product of strategic planning and timing, with the London Olympics as the perfect spotlight to debut Stratford's facelift.

Stratford Regeneration: Before and After

Stratford's development didn't happen overnight. Let's dive deeper into its transformation, comparing the pre and post-regeneration period.

Urban Regeneration is a comprehensive and integrated vision and action which leads to the resolution of urban problems and which seeks to bring about a lasting improvement in the physical, economic and social fabric of an area.

Before Regeneration:

• Stratford was predominantly an industrial area, with neglected landscapes and semi-derelict buildings.
• It housed a significant, yet disconnected community, with the area lacking in necessary social infrastructure.
• Despite being well serviced by public transport, the area wasn't an attractive destination for investment or tourism.

After Regeneration:

• Stratford has become a bustling metropolis with new housing projects, commercial buildings, and state-of-the-art sports facilities.
• The rejuvenated Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park (@qeop123) is now a recreational and cultural hotspot.
• Stratford has seen a surge in economic development, with an influx of tourists and new residents attracted to its dynamics.

Take, for example, Stratford's transport hub. Before regeneration, it was merely a junction. Today, it serves as a major interchange point between different train lines, and connects to various parts of London and the country, enhancing Stratford's connectivity and accessibility.

Pros and Cons of Stratford Regeneration

When it comes to urban regeneration, there are always two sides to the coin. While Stratford's transformation brought many advantages, it also resulted in certain challenges. Let's discuss each in detail.

Regeneration Pros and Cons: The positive and negative outcomes related to regeneration developments, influencing the economic, social, and environmental sectors of the area.

Thus, the regeneration of Stratford offers invaluable lessons on the balancing act between growth and inclusivity in urban planning.

Appreciating the Changes: A Stratford Summary

In the journey through Stratford's geography, the profound transformation of this East London district and its experience of urban regeneration have painted a vivid picture of how well executed urban development can impact a location's dynamics, economy, and cultural landscape.

The Transformation of Stratford through Regeneration

Stratford's metamorphosis is more than merely an architectural makeover. It's a testament to the resilience of a community and the potential of thoughtful regeneration.

Urban regeneration of Stratford was catalysed by London's successfully hosting the Olympics in 2012, which offered a unique opportunity to transform the district from an industrial hinterland to a hub of cultural and social vibrancy.

Transformation in the context of urban geography refers to an extensive or dramatic change in the physical, social and economic structures of a city or district.

The following facets illustrate Stratford's transformation journey:

• Industrial to Residential: Stratford has seen a shift from being predominantly industrial to a largely residential area with new residential developments attracting a more diverse population.
• Transportation Enhancement: The redevelopment of Stratford's transportation network has significantly improved the accessibility of the area.
• Cultural Vibrancy: The emergence of sites like Olympic Park and the Westfield Stratford City shopping centre, repositioned Stratford as a cultural and leisure destination.

Seeing the transformation can be as simple as taking a walk through the Stratford Centre, a local shopping mall that serves as a microcosm of the area's change. Where once it was an outdated shopping complex, it is now a vibrant centre of activity teeming with shops, restaurants, and often, community events.

Regulation and its Impact on Stratford's Future

The continued success of Stratford's regeneration and the implications for its future notably depend on the role of regulatory policies and frameworks.

Regulation in the context of urban planning refers to the rules or directives enforced by an authority (like a government agency) to guide the development and management of urban spaces.

The impact of urban regulation on Stratford's future can be grouped under two main themes:

• Sustainability: Regulation demands balanced growth, ensuring new developments are environmentally friendly and socially inclusive, promoting sustainable living.
• Urban Resilience: Regulatory measures aim to increase the city's capacity to absorb, recover and adapt to challenges, ensuring the long-term viability of the district.

For instance, the London Plan, a strategic planning document by the Mayor of London, encapsulates policies that promote strategies such as "Building a sustainable future", "Building strong communities" and "Promoting opportunity", all of which are vital for Stratford's continued growth and development.

It's important to note that while regulation guides development, it's the adaptation and execution of these regulations by local authorities and developers that will determine Stratford's evolution.

Thus, appreciating the transformation of Stratford showcases the catalyst role of urban regeneration and the importance of regulation in shaping the future of cultural landscapes like Stratford.

Stratford - Key takeaways

• Stratford is a district in the East End of London, notable for its architectural diversity, cultural variety, and expansive commercial opportunities.
• The London Olympics 2012 played a significant role in Stratford's development, serving as a catalyst for urban regeneration, economic enrichment, and social cohesion.
• Stratford's regeneration, primarily triggered by the 2012 Olympics, is a study case of urban renewal and sustainable development, transforming this former industrial area into a dynamic hub of cultural and social vibrancy.
• The regeneration of Stratford has both pros – like improved sports infrastructure, increased economic activity , and modernized urban environment – and cons – including gentrification, potential social unrest, and concerns over preserving the area's historic and cultural identity.
• Urban planning regulation plays a critical role in ensuring Stratford's future, targeting eco-friendly and socially inclusive growth, as well as resilience to challenges for the district's sustainability.

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Where is Stratford located?

In East London, about 7 miles from Central London

What was Stratford like after the decline?

It had one of the most deprived communities in the country, unemployment was high, and health levels were poor. Stratford lacked proper infrastructure, and the environmental quality was poor. 

During the Victorian Era, the Metropolitan Building Act, the new railway, and the creation of the Royal Docks accelerated industrialisation. With it, Stratford saw a lot of work opportunities.

Deindustrialisation and the closure of the Royal Docks

The creation of containerised cargo and other technological changes. The containerised cargo was much more efficient for transporting goods, but it required larger ships. These ships could not navigate down as far as the Royal Docks.

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Quizzes // 

Urban case study - london.

Test your knowledge of London and urbanisation with this 15-question GCSE quiz.  

If you haven't already done it, work through the urban case study of London on the PowerPoint (especially the graph on page 11). Or look at it again to help fill any gaps in what you know!

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HIGH SCORES

Quizzes // urban case study - london, q1. which of these is not a borough of london.

Kingston upon Thames

City of London

Q2. The average UK house price was £272,000 in 2020. What was the average in London?

£272,000

£514,000

£356,000

£790,000

Q3. In the UK, the average salary was £22,044 in 2020. What was the average salary in London?

£22,044

£17,100

£34,473

£50,000

Q4. What causes counter urbanisation in London?

The movement of people out of London due to reasons such as house prices, traffic, crime and pollution

The movement of people into London after the redevelopment of East London for the Olympic Games in 2012

The movement of people from the countryside into the city of London

The movement of people from the centre of London to the suburban boroughs, such as Kingston Upon Thames

Q5. Which of these motorways circles London?

Q6. according to the mayor of london’s office, how many new homes are needed in london each year, q7. social deprivation is where people lack basic services such as housing or employment. approximately how many of london’s population are socially deprived, q8. what is the difference between site and situation.

Situation is the physical characteristics of the location you are studying, whereas site is the location of the place in relation to its physical and human surroundings

Site is the ability to see the physical characteristics of the location whereas situation is a position you may find yourself in

Site relates to the physical characteristics of the location you are studying, whereas situation is the location of the place in relation to its physical and human surroundings

Site refers to the factors that lead to the growth of a town or city, and situation is about the processes involved

Q9. Which of these describes a greenfield site for new housing development in London?

Land that has been used, usually for industry, but is now abandoned and awaiting redevelopment

A ring of protected land around a major town or city preventing further urban sprawl

An area of land that is undeveloped, usually at the edge of a town or city

Any area of the town or countryside which is grassed over, including gardens and parks

Q10. Which of these describes a brownfield site for new housing development in London?

A ring of protected land around a major city preventing further urban sprawl

Q11. Study the population pyramid for London on page 11 of the PowerPoint. Which of the following statements is true?

The most populous age category in London is 25–29

The most populous age category in London is 10–14

The most populous age category in London is 65–69

The most populous age category in London is 30–34

Q12. Study the population pyramid again. Which of the following statements is true?

There are more men aged 65–69 than women

There are more women aged 65–69 than men

There are the same percentages of men and women aged 65–69

There are twice as many men aged 65–69 as women

Q13. Study the population pyramid again. Which of these statements is true?

There are the same number of men and women in London

There are 106,700 more women than men in London

There are 107,500 more men in London than women

There are 107,500 more women in London than men

Q14. When answering a GCSE style question what should you always include?

Place names from a case study or named example

Data such as facts, figures and dates

Ensure you answer the actual question set (for example describe, explain, evaluate)

All of the above

Q15. Parts of East London were redeveloped after the London 2012 Olympics. Which of these was not part of the plan?

New school: Chobham Academy

New housing estate: East Village

International Quarter Business development

Widening of the M25 motorway

You scored this time. The more correct answers you give, and the fewer incorrect answers you guess, the better your score.

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London - A case study of the results of the urban dynamics in a large city selected from the developed world

Social structure and spatial patterns of advantage and disadvantage, wealth and poverty, ethnicity.

• Income and poverty
• Education levels, and

• Poverty in London is largely relative poverty, defined by the UK government as being below 60 per cent of median income. 
• High levels of disadvantage in London coexist with some of the greatest concentrations of wealth in Britain.
• Inner London is by far the most deeply divided part of the country, with the highest proportions of both rich and poor people anywhere.
• Over a third of children in Greater London are living in households with incomes below the government’s poverty threshold.
• Income poverty affects one in four of London’s population.
• London now has one of the highest unemployment rates in England, reversing the position which obtained in the 1970s and 1980s when the unemployment rate in London tended to be among the lowest for any region.
• Homelessness is much higher in London than elsewhere in the UK.
• The ethnic dimension of poverty is far more pronounced in London than in other regions.  
• The cost of housing, transport and childcare :
• ​ T he pattern of demand for labour : London’s labour market has changed dramatically over the last twenty years,
• The openness of London’s economy :
• The distribution of earnings :

•   London has the lowest proportion of people born in the UK (72.9 per cent)
•   London has the highest proportion of people from minority ethnic groups apart from more who identified themselves as of Pakistani origin, of whom there is a higher proportion in Yorkshire and the Humber (2.9 per cent) and the West Midlands (2.9 per cent).
•   In 2001 six out of ten Londoners were White British (nearly 4.3 million people) and four out of ten were from ethnic minority groups (nearly 2.9 million people).
•   There were slightly more people who were Asian or Asian British (12 per cent of London’s population) than Black or Black British (11 per cent of London’s population).
• The largest ethnic minority group in London was the Other White group. (These were White people who were not White British or White Irish, and therefore the group includes many other European people). Following the Other White group in size were the Indian, Black African, Black Caribbean and White Irish groups. The Bangladeshi, Pakistani and Other Asian ethnic groups were next.
• Seven of the London boroughs with the highest proportions of ethnic minorities were in Inner London and three in Outer London, whereas nine of the ten boroughs with the lowest proportions of ethnic minorities were in Outer London.
• The borough with the largest proportion of ethnic minorities was Brent where 71 per cent of the population were from ethnic minority groups (including White minorities), followed by Newham, Tower Hamlets, Hackney and Ealing.
• There were nine boroughs in London which had ethnic minority populations which were more than half the borough’s population.
•   In April 2001, the unemployment rate in Greater London was 6.7 per cent – one of the highest rates across England and Wales, second only to that of the North East.
•   London’s regional position is largely driven by high unemployment levels across Inner London boroughs where unemployment rates average 8.9 per cent. Across Outer London, unemployment levels (5.4 per cent) are nearer the national average (5.2 per cent).
•   Across London, borough rates vary from 3.6 per cent in Sutton up to 12.3 per cent in Newham. Rates are also very high in Hackney and Tower Hamlets (both 11.8 per cent).
• While Outer London has low unemployment relative to Inner London, it still has pockets of high unemployment – four per cent of wards in Outer London had rates of 10 per cent and over. 45 per cent of Outer London wards had rates above the national average.
• Unemployment rates are high for young Londoners. Rates among 16-24 year olds are 12.3 per cent – twice as high as rates for those aged 25 and over. Unemployment levels are higher still for those aged 16-19 (22.3 per cent).
• Unemployment rates for BME ( Black and minority ethnic groups) groups across Greater London average 11.3 per cent – more than twice as high as rates for White groups (5.3 per cent). Unemployment levels are highest for Bangladeshi (20.5 per cent) and Black groups (who have an average rate of 14.3 per cent).
•   Women have lower unemployment rates than men across most ethnic groups except for Pakistani women who had higher rates (13.3 per cent) than those of Pakistani men (11.6 per cent). Bangladeshi and Indian women also had rates very close to those of men.
• Those in poor health are more than twice as likely to be unemployed as those in good health (14.1 per cent compared with 5.7 per cent). Unemployment rates for those with poor health are highest in the boroughs of Tower Hamlets (23.3 per cent) and Hackney (21.8 per cent).
• People with no qualifications are almost three times more likely to be unemployed than those with higher level qualifications (11.1 per cent compared with 4.2 per cent). Rates for those with no qualifications are very high across Inner London (17.1 per cent).
•   In terms of their former jobs, unemployed people tended to be over-represented in lower paid occupations and sectors (eg hotels and catering sector, sales and customer service occupations), compared with workers generally.

Changing economic character, nature and location of residential land, commercial and industrial development

•    London was a major city prior to the industrial revolution
•    Early function as a seaport and commercial centre formed a building block for current financial developments
•    Trade generated population growth and profits but also the need for financial service industries, such as insurance and accounting.
• The deregulation of the UK finnance sector is refered to as "the big bang" which allowed massive growth. 
•   Today London continues to be important as one of the three top world cities, exerting economic authority and control
•   Since the 1960-70s manufacturing as been in decline in London. However, highly skilled manufacturing remains in demand.
•   The service sector now dominates London’s economy. Over a third of jobs in London are in the business and finance industry. Other key services are, public sector, law, marketing and advertising, tourism and hospitality, creative and cultural industries.
• Manufacturing does still continue in the London economy

​Culture of place

• Accents from around the world, and in particular the Cockney (east end) accent. (Multi coloured… no longer a white persons city)
• Frequent overcast weather and atmospheric dust  (grey)
• Diesel engines (red buses and black cabs)
• Speaker’s corner in Hyde Park (expansive green spaces)
• Brit pop, club scene and Punk movements
• London is a quite patriotic city with the Union Jack (the combined flags of England, Scotland and Wales) frequently displayed (red white and blue)

• Monday to Friday is about work, while Friday and Saturday are about going out. Sundays include football, newspaper and roast lunch.
• 11 o’clock closing of pubs gives rise to binge drinking culture and late dinners at “curry restaurants”. 
• London is an exhilarating, busy and fast paced city, but also a very expensive one.
• To buy an average home in London requires an average salary of £55,000 (AUS$136,800), however in reality the average salary is only £34,777 (AUS$86,500).
• Key workers are particularly hit as the average school teacher in London earns £26,360, a staff nurse makes £21,950 and a postal worker earns only £21,180. (note: in mid 2006, 1 UK£ = AUS$ 2.49).
• The overall average rent for two-bedroom accommodation for all boroughs is £214. The corresponding average rent for all central boroughs is £321, and for other boroughs £201.
• Only those earning over £60,000 would be considered affluent.
• Most Londoners have a strong pub culture and spend considerable time at the local pub or bar. 
•  The pull of people towards London means it contains much creative energy.
•  London’s constant state of flux makes it a very vibrant and vigorous place in which to live and visit.

Growth, development, future trends and ecological sustainability

• Has a huge demand for natural resources
• Obliterates the natural hydrological system within its area
• Produces waste products, including solid and liquid waste, air pollutants, heat and noise, which alters the environment around it
• Reduces biomass and alters the species of plants and animals in and around it
• Creates new land through reclamation and landfill
• Encouraging households and industry to reduce the amount of resources they consume, such as encouraging energy efficient water heating, and increasing the price of water to discourage its wasteful use.
• Encouraging a reduction in the amount of waste created, such as reducing packaging, using more energy efficient equipment, re-using and recycling materials, educating citizens in more efficient ways of reducing resource use and waste production.
• London is also aiming to reduce transport pressures and hence fuel usage by promoting regional hubs of employment.

Further Reading

GCSE - Urban Issues and Challenges

UIC - Global Patterns of urban change UIC - Factors affecting urbanisation and megacities

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Urbanisation in the UK 

UIC - UK overview of urban areas

YOU ONLY need to study one UK case study

SUSTAINABILITY IN URBAN AREAS

UIC - Sustainability in Urban areas UIC - Urban Transport Strategies

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London Docklands Case Study

London Docklands is an example of how urban change has created employment opportunities. This is one of a collection of four case studies covering social, economic and environmental opportunities resulting from urban change in London .

Case Study – Docklands, London

Why did the docks in london decline.

London’s history as a port city dates back to Roman times. Later, the construction of docks facilitated the handling of the large quantities of goods and raw materials that arrived in London by ship. Industries such as sugar refineries, flour mills, and timber yards developed near the docks to process these materials. However, with the advent of container ships in the 1970s, the docks gradually became inadequate, leading to their closure by 1980, along with many of the industries that relied on them.

Docklands in 1965 – Source: https://islandhistory.wordpress.com/2020/09/15/the-view-from-above-in-1965/

Why have new industries grown?

To address this situation, the government established the London Docklands Development Corporation (LDDC) in 1981 to revitalise the area around the docks by attracting private investment. This initiative became a model for similar regeneration projects throughout the UK. One of the key features of the revitalised Docklands area is Canary Wharf, which now boasts high-rise office buildings housing international banks. With over 100,000 people employed there, and in conjunction with the City of London, Docklands has helped make London a major global financial centre.

Canary Warf in London’s Docklands

What employment opportunities does London offer?

Since 1994, London has experienced almost continuous job growth, with the number of jobs rising despite the recession that followed in 2007. Most new jobs have been in the service sector, particularly in “Professional, real estate and business services,” which encompasses various professions such as management consulting, law and accounting, real estate agents, advertising, and market research. Conversely, there has been a decline in manufacturing jobs, with few factories remaining in London.

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