According to new research from The University of Manchester, council estate demolition is driven by profit rather than the need to provide affordable housing
According to Dr Nick Thoburn, the author of the study, council estate demolition uproots residents from support networks and jobs.
The impact of this is a reduction in the supply of affordable, safe, and secure housing.
He also warns of the environmental impact of demolition, which is hidden behind claims that net zero carbon targets will be achieved through ‘green’ replacement housing.
Research carried out by UoM with residents at East London’s Robin Hood Gardens found that they were “almost entirely absent from the prominent public debate about the estate’s merits, failings and impending demolition.”
Residents were aware of the lack of investment and maintenance of the estate and found that there was a ‘managed decline’. This is where councils leverage long-term disinvestment for demolition.
Based on the research findings, two policy solutions are suggested:
- Repair, refurbishment, and retrofit of existing social housing. Council estate demolition should not be the favoured option but the last result when buildings are proven to be structurally unsound.
- Residents should be consulted meaningfully and fairly. According to Thoburn, London local authorities are required to obtain a majority in a ballot regarding redevelopment or demolition. However, this process is stacked in favour of demolition and must be overhauled.
