The Renewal of Post-War Manchester: Planning, Architecture and the State - Hardcover

by Richard Brook (Author)

The renewal cities of Britain, those that began their reconstruction after 1960, are rich in utopian visions. This book delves into Manchester's visual history, mapping legislative shifts, Cold War dynamics, decolonisation and the surge of consumerism.

Back Jacket

Urban renewal in Britain was thrilling in its vision, yet partial and incomplete in its implementation. For the first time, this deep study of a renewal city reveals the complex networks of actors behind physical change and stagnation in post-war Britain.

Using the nested scales of region, city and case-study sites, the book explores the relationships between Whitehall legislation, its interpretation by local government planning officers and the on-the-ground impact through urban architectural projects. Each chapter highlights the connections between policy goals, global narratives and the design and construction of cities.

The Cold War, decolonialisation, rising consumerism and the oil crisis all feature in a richly illustrated account of architecture and planning in post-war Manchester.

Author Biography

Richard Brook is an architect, historian and Professor in Architecture at Lancaster University. He has dedicated more than two decades to understanding the post-war development of Manchester and cities like it. His core interests lie in the relationships between space, politics and society, as manifested through the built environment.