City regions and place development

Abstract

This paper explores the concept of a 'city region' in the context of proposals for re-configuring sub-national government arrangements. It challenges notions that there are any simple connections between such arrangements and the relational dynamics which produce particular kinds of economic and social interactions in dense urban places. The paper considers the various arguments underlining calls for a 'city region' focus, and at recent experiences in the Netherlands and England. These arguments and experiences underline that the concept of a 'city region' can be mobilised both as an organising device and to call attention to place dynamics. The paper concludes by warning of the dangers of a narrow focus on public administration and economic 'competitiveness' considerations as the justification for creating 'city region' institutional arenas. Instead, greater attention is needed to promoting more integrated, locally-specific, place development agendas.